22 Dec 2020 | 05:03 PM UTC
Spain: Activists are likely to protest a controversial education reform law in front of the Senate in Madrid, Dec. 23
Activists likely to protest a controversial education reform law in Madrid, Spain, Dec. 23. Traffic disruptions; increased security likely.
Event
Parents, students, unions, companies, and activists affiliated with the "More Plural Platform" will likely protest outside Madrid's Senate building on Dec. 23. The purpose of the action is to oppose a controversial education reform law, the Ley Organica de Modificacion de la Ley Organica de Educacion (LOMLOE), commonly known as Ley Celaa, which critics believe has been written without the input of educators. There have been at least five similar demonstrations, including vehicular marches, in Madrid in November and December 2020 opposing the legislation.
Thousands of people are likely to participate in the demonstration. Counterprotests are also possible. While previous demonstrations have remained peaceful, clashes or isolated violent incidents cannot be entirely ruled out. Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the protest and may move to disperse the participants, as demonstrations, protests, and other public events have largely been suspended in Spain due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related restrictions.
Context
Avoid the protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security forces and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules for disruptions before beginning journeys, and allow extra time for travel in Madrid Dec. 23.
