29 Oct 2019 | 01:00 PM UTC
Spain: Additional protests announced in Catalonia October 29-November 13 /update 10
Groups continue protests against independence activists sentencing October 29-November 14; clashes possible
Event
Several pro-independence groups have called for continuous protests from Tuesday, October 29, through Thursday, November 14. On October 29, the CDR Parc Vall d'Hebron has called on protesters to gather in Barcelona at Plaça d'Eivissa at 19:00 (local time) and will march at 19:15 to Plaça de Margall.
On October 30 and 31, the student union Sindicat d'Estudiants dels Països Catalans (CEPC) continues its indefinite strike with protests at universities in Barcelona accompanied by marches. Another protest will take place on October 31 at Plaça Universitat and at Plaça Imperial Tàrraco in Tarragona at 12:00. This group may hold daily protests with little to no warning in Barcelona and throughout the region.
The Tsunami Democràtic group has called for protests on November 9 throughout Catalonia and on November 11 - November 13, at surprise locations.
A heightened security presence and lingering transportation disruptions are to be expected over the coming hours in Barcelona and other affected areas; associated demonstrations throughout the region may result in disruptions to transportation and business over the coming days. Counter-protests are possible. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
Protests have been ongoing since October 1, to mark the two-year anniversary of a failed independence referendum that took place in Catalonia in 2017. Several Catalan activists were consequently on trial for their involvement in the referendum, which Madrid deemed illegal. On October 14, the Supreme Court sentenced nine of them to between nine and 13 years in prison, prompting mass protests in Barcelona and other cities across Catalonia.
On October 15, protesters blocked several roads and highways and clashed violently with riot police. Six activists have been arrested, while 170 people - including 40 police officers - have been injured in the protests.
Advice
Individuals in Catalonia, notably in Barcelona, are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, confirm their flight reservations, anticipate delays and cancelations, plan additional travel time, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
