03 Feb 2019 | 11:08 PM UTC
Germany: Hundreds protest diesel vehicle ban in Stuttgart February 2
Hundreds wearing yellow vests protest new regulations banning the driving of older diesel vehicles in Stuttgart February 2; similar demonstrations possible over the near term
Event
Hundreds of people wearing yellow vests staged a protest in Stuttgart on Saturday, February 2, denouncing a new ban on driving older diesel vehicles in the city that do not meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Protesters claim that the new ban, effective January 1, negatively impacts tens of thousands of people in or traveling to Stuttgart who cannot afford to buy a vehicle that meets the emissions standards.
Similar protests are possible in Stuttgart over the near term. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.
Context
The February 2 protest in Stuttgart was an apparent nod to France's "yellow vest" movement, which began on November 17, 2018, to protest rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax. The protest movement has since grown to encompass a number of popular grievances against the French government; some protests have turned violent and acts of vandalism and looting have been reported, although the scale of the protests has diminished since their height in December.
Advice
Individuals in Stuttgart are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
