Germany: Activists plan protests in multiple cities May 31

Event

Left-wing activist groups plan to protest in urban centers across Germany May 31. Demonstrators will denounce a recent high-profile German court ruling regarding the imprisonment of an activist.

The most disruptive protests are planned for the following times and locations:

17:30

• Berlin: Tempelhof Damm

18:00

• Dresden: Jorge-Gomondai-Platz

• Cologne: Severinstrasse

• Mainz: Central Station

• Stuttgart: Marienplatz

19:00

• Dortmund: Sonnenplatz

• Duisburg: Konig Heinrich Square

• Karlsruhe: St. Stephan Square

• Hanover: Leinau Street

20:00

• Bremen: Ziegenmarkt

• Hamburg: Rote Flora

21:00

• Leipzig: Lene-Voigt Park

The demonstrations will likely attract thousands of supporters. Although none have so far been announced, counterdemonstrations by right-wing organizations are possible and the left-wing demonstrations will likely feature heavy security as a precaution against unrest. Clashes between police and protesters, as well as between rival groups of demonstrators, are possible; bystanders are unlikely to be directly impacted. Traffic delays are likely on affected routes, and congestion will likely build on surrounding routes.

Context

Left-wing activist groups are opposed to the imprisonment of the 28-year-old German student who was reportedly involved in the planning and execution of violent acts against members of right-wing organizations. The court sentenced the activist to five years and three months in prison. Further related protests are likely.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate personal exposure to any associated disruptions. Allow extra time for travel in major cities through the evening of May 31. Heed instructions from local authorities and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.