17 Jun 2023 | 12:46 AM UTC
Austria: Multiple demonstrations planned in Vienna June 17
Multiple demonstrations planned in Vienna, Austria, June 17; heightened security, transport disruptions likely near rallies.
Event
Multiple demonstrations are planned in Vienna June 17. The city's annual Pride festival will occur on Rathausplatz 11:00-22:00; a parade will begin at Rathausplatz at 13:00 and travel counterclockwise along Ringstrasse around the Innere Stadt before returning to Rathausplatz at 17:00. Pride-related events are scheduled to continue in the area through the evening.
The Platform Family group will reportedly stage a counterdemonstration at Stephansplatz at 14:00. Protesters plan to march from Stephansplatz at 17:00 to Ballhausplatz via Stock-im-Eisen-Platz, Graben, Kohlmarkt, Michaelerplatz, and Schauflergasse. Around 500 people will attend the event.
Additionally, some 200 protesters will stage a demonstration at Turkenshanzplatz at 16:00 to denounce perceived NATO and EU aggression against Russia amid the war in Ukraine. As part of their action, demonstrators will march to the Ukrainian Embassy and return to Turkenshanzplatz. Activists plan to conclude their rally by 19:00.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the demonstration sites and march routes. Localized business disruptions are possible. Clashes between police and protesters, as well as between opposing groups of demonstrators, cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Avoid the demonstrations due to possible clashes. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any related disruptions. If violence breaks out in your area, immediately leave the vicinity and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
