Poland: Fitness industry workers hold protest in Warsaw October 17

Event

A large protest was held by hundreds of gym owners and other workers in the fitness industry outside the Sejm parliament building in Warsaw on Saturday, October 17. They demonstrated over the closure of gyms, fitness clubs, and other sports facilities as part of new restrictions that came into effect on Saturday to control the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). There have been no reports of violence or arrests associated with the protest.

Further protests over the issue are possible over the near term and will likely be accompanied by a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport.

Advice

Those in Warsaw are advised to monitor developments, avoid large gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.