Spain: Free speech activists confirm additional protest locations nationwide Feb. 17; clashes likely /update 1

Event

Free speech activists have confirmed additional details for protests planned in cities nationwide Feb. 17. The purpose of the action is to denounce the arrest of a musician following a conviction on charges of glorifying terrorism and insulting the Spanish monarchy. Organizers have slated protests for the following times and locations:

• A Coruna: Praza Ourense starting at 2000

• Barcelona: Jardinets de Gracia starting at 1900

• Girona: Placa 1 d'Octubre starting at 1900

• Las Palmas: Plaza de San Telmo starting at 1800

• Lleida: Placa Europa starting at 1900

• Madrid: Puerta del Sol starting at 1900

• Seville: Prado Courts starting at 2000

• Tarragona: Rambla Nova starting at 1900

• Toledo: Plaza Zocodover starting at 1900

• Vic: Placa del Pes starting at 1930

• Vigo: MARCO starting at 2000

• Zaragoza: Ciudad Universitaria starting at 1900

Related protests are likely in additional cities and towns across the country, and particularly in Catalonia, Feb. 17; attendance will vary by location but could exceed 1,000 at larger gatherings.

Additional police will likely deploy to all protests. Large numbers of people and associated security measures could prompt localized transport disruptions in protest areas; public transport may be suspended or diverted. Special restrictions on public gatherings are currently in force in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic; police may attempt to disperse activists deemed to be breaching these restrictions.

Protests over this issue Feb. 16 escalated to violent clashes between protesters and police, particularly in Catalonia, including at actions in Barcelona, Lleida, and Girona. Activists built barricades, threw objects at security services, and targeted police buildings in those areas. At least 30 people were injured, and police made multiple arrests. Further clashes are likely at actions Feb. 17; security services may resort to riot-control tactics, such as tear gas and water cannon, in response. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face a significant indirect threat of harm.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from police and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow extra time for travel in protest-affected areas.