15 Nov 2022 | 04:42 PM UTC
Czech Republic: Several groups to demonstrate in Prague Nov. 17
Several groups to demonstrate in Prague, Czech Republic, Nov. 17. Increased security, localized disruptions likely; clashes possible.
Event
Several activist groups and organizations plan to demonstrate in central Prague Nov. 17; the actions coincide with the nation's observance of the 33rd anniversary of the 1989 Velvet Revolution which led to the transition to democracy in what was then Czechoslovakia.
"Czech Republic First," a group with a pro-Russian agenda that opposes the EU and NATO, will gather at Prague Main Station before marching to the headquarters of Czech Television in the Kavci Hory area; organizers have as yet announced no start time for the event. A counterdemonstration is planned under the banner "March for Democracy"; participants will gather on Albertov at 15:00 before marching to Wenceslas Square for a final rally. Moreover, student climate activists plan to gather at Jan Palach Square from 12:00 before marching through the city center to the Straka Academy building. Further demonstrations are likely in Prague and other Czech cities Nov. 17; likely locations include outside government offices and in central squares. While attendance will likely vary by group and location, larger gatherings could draw thousands of participants.
Additional police will deploy to monitor all gatherings and keep rival groups of activists apart. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Disruptions are likely at Prague Main Station as participants arrive at the demonstration starting at that location. Isolated clashes with security services or between rival groups of activists are possible, particularly during the "Czech Republic First" action. Police may resort to riot control measures against unruly crowds.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations 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 public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in Athens. Monitor local media for updates on commemorative events.
