Germany: Climate activist to protest in Potsdam Jan. 28

Event

Climate activists affiliated with the Extinction Rebellion (XR) environmental movement plan to protest in Potsdam Jan. 28. Participants will gather in front of the SPD Potsdam-Mittelmark from 14:00 and march towards the Landtag Brandenburg. The purpose of the action is to denounce plans to expand a coal mine in Lutzerath (North Rhine-Westphalia State). Hundreds may participate; the event is slated to end at 16:30.

Protesters could attempt to disrupt transport and commercial activity during the event; participants have obstructed road traffic in similar demonstrations in recent weeks. Heightened security measures are also likely and may prompt localized traffic disruptions. Although XR advocates for nonviolent action, low-level confrontations between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the march as a routine security precaution. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Potsdam on Jan. 28.