Germany: Kurdish activists to demonstrate against PKK ban in Berlin Nov. 26

Event

Pro-Kurdish activist groups and members of the Kurdish diaspora plan to demonstrate in Berlin Nov. 26 to demand Germany lifts the ban on the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Participants will gather in Hermannplatz from 11:00 for a rally. Precedent suggests organizers will lead a march on surrounding streets; however, a march route has not been annouced.

Although attendance levels are unclear, previous similar demonstrations have featured several thousand persons. Authorities will almost certainly deploy additional police to monitor and facilitate the demonstration. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions. Public transport services in the area could be canceled or diverted, and commuters may experience increased congestion at Hermannplatz U-Bahn (metro) station as demonstrators arrive and depart the event. The demonstration is likely to pass peacefully; however, isolated clashes between activists and security services cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration 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 and allow extra time for travel in the affected area Nov. 26.