12 Jan 2022 | 03:23 PM UTC
Austria: Activists to protest COVID-19 policies at Heldenplatz, Vienna, Jan. 15
Activists to protest COVID-19 policies at Heldenplatz, Vienna, Austria, from 12:00 Jan. 15; disruptions, isolated clashes likely.
Event
The opposition Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) has called for a demonstration in central Vienna Jan. 15 to denounce government COVID-19 policies. Participants will gather at 12:00 on Heldenplatz. Up to 40,000 activists have attended related events in recent weeks; officials anticipate that up to 100,000 could attempt to participate in the demonstration on Jan. 15.
Additional police will deploy increased resources to the affected area to monitor the protest. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely result in localized disruptions. Isolated clashes between police and protesters are likely. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted in any violence, they would face a significant incidental threat.
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 disruptions before beginning journeys and allow extra time for travel in the affected area Jan. 15.
