Germany: Extinction Rebellion protesters occupy Berlin bridge as of October 9 /update 1

Event

Extinction Rebellion protesters in Berlin are currently blocking the city's Marschal Bridge. Reports indicate that hundreds are gathered in the occupation, which has been ongoing since 03:00 (local time). While the protests remain peaceful, a number of traffic obstructions are in place.  Police have closed Wilhelmstraße and Margarete-Steffin-Straße in both directions and the Schiffbauerdamm is closed indefinitely. Service on bus lines 100, 147, and 245 is limited, and will likely affect others as well. 

Also on Wednesday, protesters will meet on the Kurfürstendamm avenue as of 16:00 for a picnic and musical activities, likely causing further disruptions. Although the exact location of the event was not immediately available, the entire avenue is likely to be shut down. An associated event for outdoor meditation is planned at 12:00 outside the Reichstag.

Related protests and associated roadblocks are expected across the city through Monday, October 14. A heightened security presence and significant transport and business disruptions are expected around all protest sites. Other associated transportation disruptions are to be expected amid a heightened security presence. It is unclear how long the occupation will last.

Context

The Extinction Rebellion environmental group has organized disruptive protests around the world since November 2018 to demand increased action to address climate change issues. XR is planning a series of international protests starting the week of Monday, October 7.

Advice

Individuals in Berlin, are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, expect transportation and business disruptions, Individuals in Berlin, are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, expect transportation and business disruptions.