DESOBEDIENTEAK 18/98 – DESOBEDIENTES 18/98

“Ainhoa”, a young woman recently awarded a PhD in Political Science, defends her thesis before an academic panel. Her research explores civil disobedience as a legitimate and necessary form of resistance in today’s democracies, while revisiting meaningful examples of how this practice has shaped the history and expansion of human rights.

At the same time, the piece immerses us in the controversial macro trial known as Case 18/98, launched from an investigation initiated by Judge Garzón, in which several individuals connected to a foundation linked to social movements were prosecuted for their civic activism. From the courtroom to the university and from the university to the wider world, the play explores the foundations of civil disobedience, how it works, and why it remains relevant and necessary in today’s society.

“I’ve always felt drawn to disobedience, to rebellion. Perhaps because I’ve heard the word ‘disobedient’ from my mother’s lips since I was a child; perhaps because I’ve always wanted to fight injustice through peaceful means, even if that comes with consequences.” — María Goiricelaya