Austria: Rival activist groups to protest in Vienna March 6

Event

Activists plan to protest against measures introduced to combat the spread of COVID-19 in central Vienna March 6. Participants will gather at Maria-Theresien-Platz from 1300; attendance is likely to be in the thousands. Due to the regular presence of far-right activists at such demonstrations, anti-fascist groups plan to stage a counterprotest beginning at Votiv Park from 1200 before likely proceeding to Maria-Theresien-Platz.

Additional police will deploy to monitor the protests and attempt to keep rival activist groups apart. Large crowds and associated security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in protest areas. Public transport services may be canceled or diverted; rail operators are anticipating increased use of their services by activists traveling to attend the demonstration, possibly resulting in increased crowding and disruptions at stations. Current COVID-19 measures in Austria restrict public gatherings. Police may preemptively ban one or both of the demonstrations or attempt to disperse participants if they are deemed to be breaching COVID-19 restrictions. Protesters seeking to circumvent security cordons could gather in other parts of the city. Isolated clashes between police and protesters or rival groups of activists are possible.

Advice

Avoid the protests 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 before beginning journeys. Allow extra time for travel in central Vienna March 6.