Portugal: Nationwide yellow vest protests planned January 5 /update 1

Event

"Yellow vest" protesters are planning to stage nationwide demonstrations on Saturday, January 5, to protest rising cost of living and to demand better social benefits. Demonstrators are expected to gather at the Marquês de Pombal roundabout in Lisbon, Aliados Avenue in Porto, and in central Faro beginning at 10:00 (local time). Additional protests are likely in the near term, particularly on weekends. A heightened security presence, as well as localized transportation and business disruptions, are to be expected near protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces, along with some arrests, cannot be ruled out.

Context

Demonstrations, known locally as "Vamos Parar Portugal," were staged nationwide on December 21, although protests remained small. Organizers have reportedly indicated that the upcoming protests will not seek to block traffic.

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and anticipate business and transportation disruptions in the vicinity of demonstrations.