UK: Activists to hold COVID-19 protest in London Sept. 25

Event

Activists denouncing measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 plan to protest in central London Sept. 25. Participants will gather at Hyde Park Corner from 13:00 before marching through central London. As of Sept. 22 organizers have not confirmed the march route; based on previous protests possible impacted areas include Oxford Street, Broadcasting House, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street, and Parliament Square. General likely targets of the protest include medical, government, and media facilities in the area. Attendance will likely exceed 1,000.

Additional police will be deployed to monitor the protest. The protest itself and related security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions along the march route; public transport in the area may be canceled or diverted. Tube and train stations may experience heavier than usual congestion as participants seek to attend the protest. Isolated clashes between police and security forces are possible, particularly if activists attempt to breach any security cordons. Bystanders are unlikely to be targeted but would face an indirect threat of harm.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for transport disruptions before beginning journeys and allow extra time for travel in the affected area the afternoon of Sept. 25.