24 May 2020 | 01:36 AM UTC
Spain: Protests reported nationwide over COVID-19 measures May 23
Protests reported nationwide against COVID-19 measures on May 23; further protests likely
Event
On Saturday, May 23, protests took place throughout Spain against measures in place to counter the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The protests, called for by the far-right Vox party, demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias over their handling of the COVID-19 crisis. The largest protest took place in Madrid, where thousands of cars and motorbikes drove in a procession through the city. Protests started in Madrid's Salamanca neighborhood this week, but Saturday's procession marked the first organized demonstration since the lockdown started. Further protests were reported in Malaga and Barcelona.
Further protests are likely in the near-term. Associated transportation and business disruptions are to be anticipated around demonstration sites.
Advice
Individuals in Spain are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transportation and business around protest sites.
