21 Dec 2018 | 08:57 AM UTC
Spain: Disruptive protests in and around Barcelona Dec. 21
Pro-independence groups to hold disruptive actions in and around Barcelona throughout December 21; associated transportation disruptions and heightened security measures expected
Event
Disruptive pro-independence protests are expected to take place in Catalonia throughout the day on Friday, December 21, to denounce the holding of a governmental meeting in Barcelona. On Friday morning (local time), protesters organized road blocks affecting numerous highways, including those linking Catalonia to France and Madrid, as well as those serving Barcelona.
Militants also called for protests to take place at 09:00 (local time) on the same day, in front of the Casa Llotja de Mar in Barcelona, in order to disrupt the meeting. Further protests and road blockades are expected throughout the day in Barcelona. The Catalan National Assembly (ANC), a pro-independence organization, called for a demonstration to be held at 18:00 in the center of the Catalan capital.
As such, major transportation disruptions can be expected both in the center and the outskirts of Barcelona throughout the day, as well as a heightened security presence. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Individuals present in Barcelona are advised to monitor the development of the situation, plan for extra time to reach their destination, and avoid all protests as a precaution.
