Germany: Rival activist groups to demonstrate in Leipzig May 8

Event

Rival activist groups plan to demonstrate in central Leipzig May 8. Anti-fascist activists will gather at Wilhelm-Leuschner-Platz from 14:00 to denounce institutionalized racism and police violence. Activists denouncing measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 will gather at Kurt-Masur-Platz from 14:00 and Simsonplatz from 15:00; anti-fascist activists also plan to gather in the same locations to stage counterdemonstrations. Local media reports suggest activists denouncing COVID-19 restrictions may also gather at Richard-Wagner-Platz May 8 though no time has been given. Attendance across all of the demonstrations will likely exceed 1,000.

Additional police will deploy to monitor the protests and keep rival activist groups apart. Large crowds and associated security measures will likely prompt transport disruptions in the protest areas; public transport services may be canceled or diverted. Current COVID-19 measures in Germany restrict public gatherings. Police may preemptively ban the protests or attempt to disperse activists if they are deemed to be breaching these restrictions. Activists seeking to circumvent security cordons may gather in other parts of the city. Isolated clashes are likely between rival groups of activists should they come into contact; clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

If possible, avoid all 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. Exercise increased vigilance if operating in central Leipzig May 8, check for transport disruptions and allow extra time for travel.