Ukraine: LGBTQ activists to protests outside Presidential administration building in Kyiv, July 30

Event

LGBTQ activists are planning to rally in Kyiv July 30 to call on the government to formally recognize hate crimes against the community. Participants will gather at 16:00 outside of the Presidential administration building on Bankova street; the event is scheduled to disperse by 22:00.

Hundreds of people could attend the gathering. Police will deploy in the vicinity, and associated security measures could prompt some localized disruptions. There is a small chance that anti-LGBTQ activists could attempt to disrupt the protest, though police will likely be capable of keeping rival activists separate. Nevertheless, isolated clashes are possible if protesters attempt to breach police cordons. Police could move to disperse the event if it is deemed to breach COVID-19 social distancing mandates and would likely resort to force if resisted.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a standard precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately. Do not attempt to photograph or film any clashes. Be polite and adhere to the instructions of security forces. Allow additional travel time for travel near the Presidential administration building on the afternoon and evening of July 30.