PARIS — Environmental advocate Paul Watson is currently being held in Greenland and is at risk of being extradited to Japan, but he has recently submitted a formal request for French citizenship. This move comes after comments from France’s Foreign Minister indicated that Watson’s previous application for political asylum could not be processed because he was not physically present in France.

Watson, who established the Sea Shepherd organization and is well-known for his anti-whaling efforts, was apprehended in Nuuk, Greenland, in July while attempting to confront a Japanese whaling vessel. The Japanese government has long sought Watson’s extradition, accusing him of impeding their whaling operations and causing injuries to crew members during an incident in Antarctica back in 2010.

The announcement of Watson’s citizenship request was made by his attorney, Jean Tamalet, who pointed out that this decision represents a tactical change in light of the Foreign Minister’s statement regarding the necessity for asylum applications to be submitted within French territory.

Tamalet highlighted Watson’s notable contributions to marine conservation, which resonate with France’s own environmental goals. He argued that such efforts should be recognized as “exceptional services” under the rules governing naturalization in France.

The French government is now in the process of reviewing Watson’s application for citizenship. In addition, Environment Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher reiterated the country’s call for Watson’s release from detention. Watson has expressed his appreciation to President Emmanuel Macron for the support he has received.