Romania: Protests held for third consecutive day in Bucharest August 12 /update 6

Event

Anti-government protests were held for a third consecutive night in Bucharest on Sunday, August 12. Thousand of demonstrators gathered at Victory Square on Sunday evening (local time) to denounce perceived poor governance and corruption, demand that the ruling government resign, and call for early elections. Further protests are possible in the coming days. A heightened security presence and road closures are expected near demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Protests broke out in Bucharest on Friday, August 10, with tens of thousands of people gathering in the capital. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and riot police, leaving over 450 people wounded. Related protests were held the same day in other cities in the country. Another demonstration was also held on Saturday, August 11.

Opposition protests over corruption are commonplace in Romania, which has the highest level of perceived corruption in the EU. Demonstrations have occurred regularly since December 2017, including protests in February in which at least half a million Romanians took to the streets.

Advice

Individuals in Romania, particularly in Bucharest, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Anticipate transportation disruptions near protest areas.