Poland: Tens of thousands to gather for women’s rights demonstrations in Warsaw October 30 /update 5

Event

Tens of thousands of activists are expected to gather in several areas of Warsaw on Friday, October 30, for demonstrations against recent court ruling prohibiting almost all abortions in the country. Friday's protests, organized by the Strajk Kobiet (Women's Strike) group, are expected to be the largest since demonstrations against the court ruling began on October 22, with activists travelling from around the country to join the demonstrations in the capital. Activists are expected to gather in Castle Square, Zawiszy Square, and outside the Chancellery of the Prime Minister from 17:00 (local time), although it is currently unclear when crowds intend to disperse.

The protests follow a week of women's rights protests in Warsaw, Poznan, Krakow, and Lodz, as well as other towns and cities across the country. Activists have also disrupted church services and other religious events.

A heightened police presence is expected around protest sites, 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.