23 Oct 2019 | 11:06 AM UTC
Spain: Ongoing protests in Barcelona October 23 /update 7
Independence activists hold protests in Barcelona October 23; further demonstrations planned
Event
Independence activists are reportedly holding a protest at Plaza de la Catedral in Barcelona as of Wednesday, October 23. A minute of silence was also held outside the police prefecture located on Via Laietana. The University of Barcelona has reportedly suspended classes at its faculty of law as of Wednesday.
Further protests are planned in Barcelona through Sunday, October 27.
Over 100 entities are planning a protest in Barcelona for October 26, in opposition to the Catalan leaders' sentencing. The time and location have yet to be announced.
On October 27, the Societat Civil Catalana (SCC) has called for a large demonstration to call for an end to the legal proceedings against the independence activists. Participants are due to gather at 12:00 at Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona.
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.
