09 Jun 2021 | 09:39 PM UTC
North Macedonia: Political activists to protest in Skopje and other major cities June 10-11 /update 1
Activists plan further protests in Skopje, other cities in North Macedonia June 10-11. Heightened security, associated disruptions likely.
Event
Members and supporters of the opposition Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization-Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE) plan to stage additional demonstrations in Skopje and other major North Macedonian cities through June 11 to denounce the government's talks with Bulgaria regarding historical and cultural disputes between the two countries. Protesters will block several intersections in Skopje from 15:00 to 17:00 on June 10-11, including the intersections of Cyril and Methodius Boulevard and Mother Theresa Street near the Ministry of Education, Boulevard Goce Delchev and Boulevard Kocho Racin near the Mavrovka Shopping Center, and Dame Gruev and 11th of October streets near the City Hospital (Gradska Bolnica). Activists will also block intersections in central Ohrid, Bitola, Kichevo, Prilep, Strumica, Veles, Shtip, and Kochani. Demonstrators' roadblocks caused significant transport disruptions in Skopje June 8-9.
Heightened security measures and localized business and transport disruptions are likely near protest sites. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations. Heed authorities' instructions. Allow additional time to reach destinations in central Skopje June 10-11. Seek alternative routes to circumvent protest sites in Skopje and other cities.
