Germany: Protests planned in Berlin on June 27 /update 2

Event

Black Lives Matter protests are scheduled for June 27 in Berlin. Demonstrators will gather at Alexanderplatz and head to the Siegessäule; however, the route they will take remains unknown as of Saturday, June 13. The protests are scheduled for 13:00 (local time) and around 1500 attendees are expected. The organizers of the demonstration have urged protesters to wear face masks. Large public gatherings during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic may prompt intervention by police and security forces.

Further associated protests may occur in the near term.

Context

George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on May 25. The four arresting police officers were subsequently fired and detained, and one has since been charged with murder. Black Lives Matter (BLM) supporters gathered on May 26 to denounce the death and actions of the police officers. Protests have since spread to a number of cities across the US and internationally.

Advice

Individuals in Berlin are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.