UK: Unionist groups in Northern Ireland to stage annual parades July 12

Event

The Orange Order and other unionist groups will stage the annual Twelfth of July parades in urban centers across Northern Ireland, July 12. The parades commemorate the 1690 Battle of the Boyne and form part of Northern Ireland's annual marching season. Parades will take place in 18 separate venues, with thousands of attendees and an estimated 600 marching bands.

The largest of the events will likely be in Belfast. Participants will gather at Belfast Orange Hall, Carlisle Circus, at 10:00, and then proceed along Clifton Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, Donegall Place to Belfast City Hall. After a wreath-laying ceremony, the parade will continue via Donegall Square West, Bedford Street, Dublin Road, Shaftsbury Square, Bradbury Place, Lisburn Road, Balmoral Avenue, and Malone Road, to the field at Barnett's Demesne.

Authorities have not permitted parades to go ahead in Ardoyne and Portadown, because of concerns of civil unrest. Localized protests are possible in these locations.

Additional police will deploy to monitor all gatherings. Large crowds and associated security measures, including road closures and movement restrictions, will likely result in localized transport disruptions in affected areas. Sectarian gatherings in Northern Ireland have a high propensity to escalate to violence. Many in the Republican community in Northern Ireland see the protests and parades as provocative and antagonistic, often prompting counterprotests that can escalate to clashes. So-called "interface areas" separating unionist and republican communities act as flashpoints for sectarian tension. Security services may deploy riot-control measures, such as water cannon, in attempts to subdue violent demonstrations. While bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence, they would face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Context

The Twelfth of July parades in Northern Ireland are largely organized and celebrated by unionist groups and their supporters. The marching season typically elevates tensions between unionists and nationalists; the latter has greater support among members of the Roman Catholic population. Violence has occurred in the past, particularly when the parades have passed through traditionally Catholic neighborhoods.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Check local media sources for up-to-date information on demonstrations. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules and allow extra time for travel in demonstration areas.