Becoming a climate activist: A qualitative investigation of movement participation

Activists are mobilizing worldwide to address the climate crisis. In the past years, climate movements have attracted many newcomers. Yet, even among motivated individuals who contacted a movement, becoming an actively engaged member remains rare. Previous studies have focused on non-engaged people’s intentions and barriers to joining or have surveyed long-term activists, yet little is known about newcomers. We studied how newcomers join different climate movements. In co-creation with activist organizers, we aimed to identify the phases of joining a climate movement and what facilitates and hinders engagement. We interviewed 23 individuals who had joined Extinction Rebellion (XR) United Kingdom, XR Netherlands, or the International Climate Students Movement. Five months later, the interviewees completed a short follow-up survey. Using inductive thematic analysis, we identified three phases associated with specific facilitators and barriers. The first phase was often initiated based on previous experience and a strong motivation to make a change. The second phase was marked by becoming active and socially integrated. In the final phase, activists transitioned from newcomers to active members. In the medium term, feeling effective and positive within the movement was associated with sustained engagement. Based on these findings, we recommend tailoring support for interested potential activists, newcomers, and experienced activists. Providing clear information, dedicated integrator roles, and emotional check-ins can help build broad, welcoming, and persistent activist movements. We suggest future longitudinal research starting from the moment of entry, as well as quasi-experiments testing socialization tactics.