11 Feb 2019 | 05:49 PM UTC
Germany: Heightened security during Munich Security Conference Feb.15-17
International conference to be held in Munich February 15-17; heightened security presence, localized transportation disruptions, and associated demonstrations to be expected
Event
The 55th annual Munich Security Conference is scheduled to take place at the Bayerischer Hof hotel in Munich from Friday, February 15, to Sunday, February 17. A security cordon, including road closures and security checkpoints, is to be expected in the Altstadt area through the end of the conference. Several civil society organizations have announced demonstrations to coincide with the conference; a large protest of roughly 4000 participants is set to take place on Saturday, February 16, from 13:00 (local time) at Stachus. Demonstrators are also expected to rally at other various locations in Munich, including at Lenbachplatz, Maximiliansplatz, Briennerstrasse, Odeonsplatz, and Marienplatz. Heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions are to be anticipated throughout the city. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
The Munich Security Conference is an annual international security policy conference that has taken place since 1963. It is considered the most important independent forum for international security policymakers, with some 450 senior officials from more than 70 countries around the world in attendance.
Advice
Individuals in Munich are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
