Brazil: Pro-democracy demonstrations planned in multiple cities Aug. 11

Event

Several activist groups, including the Unified Workers' Central (Central Unica dos Trabalhadores, CUT), plan to stage nationwide demonstrations in Brazil Aug. 11. The purpose of the action is to show support for democracy, as well as to demand free and fair elections; the nation's first-round vote is scheduled to take place Oct. 2.

Organizers have already confirmed the times and locations of the following demonstrations:

• Sao Paulo: Demonstration outside the Law School of the University of Sao Paulo from 11:00. Later, participants will also gather from 17:00 outside the Museum of Art of Sao Paulo Assis Chateaubriand (Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand, MASP) on Avenida Paulista.

• Salvador: Participants will gather at Campo Grande from 09:00.

• Goiania: Participants will gather at Praca Universitaria from 17:00.

• Manaus: Participants will gather at Praca da Saudade from 15:00.

• Maceio: Participants will gather at Praca do Centenario from 08:00.

Related gatherings will likely also take place elsewhere across the country, especially in state capitals. Participation will probably vary significantly depending on location; the demonstration in the city of Sao Paulo will likely be well-attended.

While the demonstrations will probably remain largely peaceful, clashes are possible. Counter-protests may also increase the possibility of clashes. Localized transport disruptions could occur near all protest locations. Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor any large demonstrations that may materialize over the course of the day.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Plan accordingly for localized transport disruptions and consider alternate routes to circumvent potential demonstration locations. Heed the instructions of local authorities; depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.