Norway: Activists to demonstrate in Oslo against COVID-19 vaccine passports Feb. 19

Event

Activists plan to stage a vehicle convoy protest followed by a street march in Oslo Feb. 19. The purpose of the event, dubbed "Freedom Convoy 2022 Norway," is to demand that the government lift all pandemic-related restrictions and refrain from introducing a COVID-19 vaccine passport system; the event is also intended as a show of solidarity with the truckers' protests that have been taking place in Canada since late January. Participants will assemble at several locations outside the city center - specifically the Tusenfryd amusement park, Hellerudsletta, the Ekenberg neighborhood, and the Sandvika Storsenter mall - before traveling in a convoy to the offices of national broadcaster NRK, located in the borough of Marienlyst, at 12:00. Should their demands not be met, activists will subsequently move on foot to the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) and hold a protest there between 17:00 and 20:00, likely staging a street march in the surrounding area.

Organizers estimate that about 500 vehicles will take part in the convoy and had originally planned to drive from the four assembly points directly to the Storting; however, municipal authorities have prohibited the motorcade from driving into the city center. Nevertheless, protesters may still attempt to follow their original plan, resulting in possible clashes with security forces. Transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of protest sites. Associated protests at other government or media offices cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Allow extra time to reach destinations in affected areas of Oslo through at least the end of the day on Feb. 19. Plan accordingly for increased crowding on public transportation. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. As a precaution, keep away from any rallies that may materialize or locations where law enforcement personnel appear to be deploying; leave the area at the first sign of any confrontation.