Bulgaria: Bulgarian National Union to lead demonstration in Sofia Feb. 25

Event

The Bulgarian National Union plans to hold the annual "Lukovmarsh" in Sofia Feb. 25. The event memorializes General Hristov Lukov, a Bulgarian First World War figure who later supported Bulgaria's alliance with Nazi Germany. Several hundred participants will gather at the National Palace of Culture (NDK) for a rally and march through the immediate area around 14:00. Several organizations have indicated strong opposition to the event, and counterdemonstrations are possible.

Authorities in Sofia have banned the event in the past and will almost certainly deploy a significantly increased security presence in the affected areas to monitor proceedings and prevent any potential violence. The demonstrations and any related security measures, including possible movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions in affected areas, including on Vitosha Boulevard and General Skobelev Boulevard.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a routine security precaution and to mitigate the impact of any associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel in affected area on the afternoon of Feb. 25. Heed all instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.