29 Apr 2021 | 03:34 PM UTC
Czech Republic: Anti-government activists to protest in urban centers April 29
Anti-government activists to protest in Czech urban centers April 29; increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
Anti-government activists led by the movement "A Million Moments for Democracy" (Milion chvilek pro demokracii) plan to protest in Czech urban centers the evening of April 29. The purpose of the action is to denounce the government response following revelations that Russian agents were implicated in two explosions at Czech ammunition depots in 2014, in particular, a statement from the Czech president which critics argue was undermining of Czech intelligence agencies and supportive of Russia. The largest action will take place in Prague, where activists will gather at Wenceslas Square from 18:00; attendance will likely be in the thousands. Further protests are organized in urban centers nationwide including in Dominican Square in Brno from 18:00 and Republic Square in Plzen from 17:00.
Additional police will deploy to monitor the actions. Large crowds and associated security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in the protest areas. Current COVID-19 measures in the Czech Republic place restrictions on public gatherings; police may attempt to disperse activists deemed to be breaching these restrictions and could arrest non-compliant participants. Isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
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 for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in protest areas the evening of April 29.
