15 Feb 2019 | 10:34 PM UTC
Bulgaria: Demonstrations to take place in Sofia February 16
Far-right "Lukov March" and counter-demonstration to take place in Sofia on February 16; avoid all protests
Event
The annual far-right "Lukov March" is set to take place in Sofia on Saturday, February 16. Demonstrators are expected to rally at 17:30 (local time) at the National Palace of Culture. The march has been banned by the Sofia local government, although organizers have indicated it will proceed as planned. Antifa Bulgaria has also organized a counter-demonstration on Saturday from 14:00 in front of the Central Mineral Baths. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected on Saturday. Clashes between protesters, counter-demonstrators, and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
The annual "Lukov March," held in Sofia since 2003, has faced significant opposition over the past few years. The marches are held in honor of a general who was the war minister of the pro-Nazi Union of Bulgarian Legions from 1932 until 1938. The Sofia local government banned the Lukov March in 2018 although the march went ahead as planned.
Advice
Individuals in Sofia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
