Switzerland: Climate activists to protest in central Bern Aug. 6

Event

Environmental activists affiliated with the Rise Up for Change movement are planning to protest in central Bern Aug. 6. Participants will gather from 12:30-16:30 at Munsterplatz. Hundreds of people could attend the demonstration.

Protesters could attempt to disrupt movement and business activity during the protest; heightened security measures are also likely to prompt localized traffic disruptions. Isolated clashes between police and protesters are possible, particularly if the latter become disruptive.

The event will mark the culmination of a week of events targeting the Swiss financial industry for its alleged support of environmentally damaging activities. As such, smaller demonstrations are possible outside the offices of major Swiss financial institutions, particularly the Swiss National Bank, on Bundesplatz, ahead of and on Aug. 6.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. due to possible clashes. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow additional time to reach destinations in central Bern Aug. 6. Exercise caution in the vicinity of potential protest sites and leave the area if protesters begin to gather.