Ukraine: Protests expected in Kiev December 2-4

Event

Protests are expected to take place outside the Verkhovna Rada (Supreme Council) building in Kiev between Wednesday, December 2, and Friday, December 4. The protest is being held by independent business holders belonging to the SaveFOP movement to denounce a bill that would require small businesses to use physical cash registers as well as in protest against measures in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A large scale protest is expected on Friday, and teachers and trade union activists are to intermittently join the protesters over the next few days.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the vicinity of the Verkhovna Rada building while protests are ongoing. Transportation and business disruptions are likely in the vicinity of protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the protest area.