Bosnia and Herzegovina: Activists to protest nationwide including in Sarajevo, Mostar, and Zenica, on Aug. 14

Event

Activists plan to stage protests in several cities across nationwide on Aug. 14. The purpose is to condemn violence against women in the wake of an Aug. 11 mass shooting. The perpetrator killed his wife and two bystanders before turning the gun on himself. The largest gathering will likely take place in Sarajevo, where participants will gather at the Sacred Heart Cathedral at 18:00 before marching to the ARIA Center shopping mall. The march route likely includes Ferhadija Street, Mula Mustafe Baseskije Street, and Radiceva Street.

Protests in the following locations will likely be the most well-attended and disruptive:

• Mostar: participants will gather in Spanski Trg (Spanish Square) at 18:00.

• Zenica: participants will gather at Alija Izetbegovic Square at 18:00.

Parallel protests in other locations are possible. Authorities will likely deploy an increased police presence near rally locations and along march routes. Localized transport disruptions are likely in areas impacted by protest activity. Although significant violence is unlikely, isolated clashes cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the areas of the announced protests as a standard security precaution. Allow extra time to reach destinations near rally locations and along march routes until the demonstrations have ended and the participants have vacated the area. Heed the instructions of local security personnel.