Poland: Activists protest at church masses nationwide on October 25 /update 3

Event

Hundreds of women's rights activists protested at church masses throughout Poland on Sunday, October 25, demonstrating against a recent court ruling resulting in a near-total ban on abortion. Protests were reported in Poznan, Krakow, Lodz, and Warsaw, among other locations. Protests against the ruling have entered a fourth day, and continued demonstrations are anticipated over the near term. The protests have taken place despite government restrictions banning gatherings of more than five people, as a measure to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

A heightened security presence at protests sites is to be expected, with disruptions to transportation and business likely.

Advice

Those in Poland are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.