Germany: Clashes reported in Leipzig between protesters and police on November 7

Event

Clashes were reported in Leipzig between protesters and police on Saturday, November 7, during a demonstration against coronavirus (COVID-19) measures introduced to curb the spread of the virus. The demonstration was organized by activists associated with the Lateral Thinking movement, although those who clashed with police are reported to have been members of far-right groups. The demonstration took place at Augustusplatz, with some participants reportedly throwing projectiles and fireworks at police after they had ordered the protesters to disperse. Authorities announced that approximately 20,000 people were expected to have participated in the demonstrations. 

Public gatherings remain prohibited under current COVID-19 measures. Further clashes between rival demonstrations as well as with police forces cannot be ruled out during associated protests in the near term.

A heightened security presence and localized transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the gathering in the near term.

Advice

Those in Leipzig are advised to monitor developments regarding the protests, avoid all protests and political gatherings due to the risk of disruptions and unrest, and heed any directives issued by local authorities.