22 Jun 2021 | 09:37 AM UTC
Spain: Opposition activists to protest at Placa d'Artos, Barcelona, from 19:00 June 22
Opposition activists to protest at Placa d'Artos, Barcelona, Spain, from 19:00 June 22; heightened security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
Unionist opposition parties have called for a protest in Barcelona June 22 to denounce the government's decision to pardon Catalonian separatist leaders. Participants will gather at 19:00 at Placa d'Artos; attendance could reach the thousands. Counterprotests by separatist activists are possible.
Authorities will deploy additional police to monitor the action and keep rival activists apart. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in the protest area. Police may try to disperse activists if they are deemed to be breaching COVID-19 restrictions and could arrest unruly participants. Isolated clashes are possible, particularly if rival groups of activists come into contact. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted but would face an indirect threat of physical harm.
Context
Nine Catalonian separatist leaders were convicted of sedition for their role in the failed 2017 Catalan independence referendum; the Spanish Supreme Court sentenced them to several years in prison in 2019. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed the government will issue pardons for all nine individuals June 22 in the belief it is the best path forward for reconciling tensions between separatists and unionists.
Spanish unionist groups, including prominent opposition political parties, oppose the move as unconstitutional and a cynical attempt to ensure continued support from separatist political parties currently integral to the government. Conversely, separatist activists argue the pardons do not go far enough and demand the Prime Minister grant the individuals full amnesty. Several protests have already been held over this issue, including a large demonstration against the pardons in Madrid June 13; further protests by unionist and separatist activists are likely in the coming weeks.
Advice
Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for transport disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected area the evening of June 22.
