05 Mar 2021 | 10:56 AM UTC
Asia-Pacific: Demonstrations likely in several countries and territories to mark International Women's Day March 8
Rallies to mark International Women's Day likely in several cities throughout Asia-Pacific March 8. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Event
Women's rights activists and supporters are likely to hold protests in countries throughout the Asia-Pacific region to mark International Women's Day March 8. Although most demonstrations are typically small, some can draw thousands of people, particularly in South and Southeast Asian cities. Organizers have announced or typically hold demonstrations in the following cities:
Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Protesters usually gather at Freedom Park and Olympic Stadium.
Jakarta, Indonesia: Activists could rally at the House of Representatives and Arjuna Wijaya Statue.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Protesters could gather near the Sogo shopping center.
Metro Manila, Philippines: Demonstrations may occur at Malacanang Palace and other major gathering points.
Bangkok, Thailand: Protests could occur near Government House and the UN office.
Hyderabad, Pakistan: Rally announced 1400 from the Shahbaz building to the Hyderabad Press Club.
Islamabad, Pakistan: Rally planned 1400 at the Islamabad Press Club; high turnout likely. Violence is possible, as at least one conservative group has announced counterdemonstrations at the same venue.
Karachi, Pakistan: Demonstration scheduled 1500 at the Frere Hall building.
Lahore, Pakistan: Rally planned 1400 at Lahore Press Club; high turnout likely.
Multan, Pakistan: March planned along Abdali Road from the Nawa Shehar area to the Multan Press Club, 1400.
Quetta, Pakistan: Gathering planned 1500 at Quetta Press Club.
Sukkur, Pakistan: March to occur 1300 from Dua Chowk intersection along Bunder Road to the Sukkur Press Club.
Sydney, Australia: Rally to take place at Parliament of New South Wales from 1730.
Additional unannounced International Women's Day observances and rallies are possible in cities regionwide, especially South Asia. Protests could occur at government buildings and other prominent venues and landmarks. However, turnout at most events will probably be lower than normal due to ongoing COVID-19 gathering restrictions in many locations.
Security personnel will likely monitor demonstrations. Most rallies will be peaceful, but police could break up some protests due to COVID-19 restrictions or crackdowns on dissent. Some unrest is possible in countries where large divides exist between liberals and conservatives. Previous Women's Day gatherings in Pakistan have resulted in violence - especially in major cities such as Islamabad - due to religious and conservative groups disrupting or attacking planned rallies.
Advice
Consider avoiding protests March 8 due to the potential for localized disruptions. Use alternative routes to circumvent protest marches. Allow additional time to reach destinations near announced demonstrations.
