16 Feb 2019 | 02:20 AM UTC
France: Thousands expected in Strasbourg pro-Kurdish rally February 16
Around 12,000 people to attend pro-Kurdish rally in Strasbourg on February 16; transportation disruptions and heightened security presence expected
Event
An estimated 12,000 people are expected to participate in an annual rally in Strasbourg in support of imprisoned Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan on Saturday, February 16. The event will begin at 10:00 (local time) when participants will march from Boulevard de Metz in the city's Quartier de la Gare and conclude around 15:00 at Rue des Vanneaux. Localized transportation disruptions, including road closures and public transportation service changes, are planned. A heightened security presence is possible along the route.
Context
Strasbourg hosts an annual rally in support of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) founder Abdullah Öcalan, who has been imprisoned by Turkey since 1999. The PKK is considered a terrorist organization by the EU and NATO.
Advice
Individuals in Strasbourg are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence, and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.
