Portugal: Protests planned in several cities December 21

Event

Demonstrators affiliated with the Vamos Parar Portugal (Let's Stop Portugal) movement are planning to stage protests in several cities in Portugal on Friday, December 21, including in Lisbon, Porto, and Braga. The rallies are reportedly being planned to demand tax cuts, wage increases, reductions in the price of fuel, and improved public health services. In Lisbon, protesters plan on assembling on the Marquês de Pombal roundabout and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Disruptions are also possible on the A8 highway. In Porto, demonstrators plan on gathering in the Francos area.

A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.

Context

The protests are reportedly inspired by the "yellow vest" movement protests in France. The "yellow vest" movement began on November 17 to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax. Thousands of demonstrators participated in marches in Paris and across France on December 15, as protests continued for the fifth consecutive weekend.

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.