Slovakia: Protesters gathered outside presidential palace in Bratislava, July 29

Event

Hundreds of protesters are gathered outside the presidential palace in Bratislava as of the early afternoon July 29; activists are denouncing restrictions and other policies arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports suggest that protesters blocked nearby roads earlier in the morning.

Security-related disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the gathering. Police used teargas to disperse protesters when they attempted to breach the parliament building July 23 and could again move to disperse participants forcefully if they breach security cordons, become disruptive, or attempt to block further roads. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face a significant physical threat near any violence. Further protests are likely outside the presidential palace and other government sites, including the parliament building, in the coming days.

Advice

Avoid any protests as a standard security precaution and exercise caution near potential protest sites. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.