Moldova: Farmers' groups delay protest in central Chisinau until Nov. 22-23 /update 1

The Farmers' Force Association and the National Federation of Farmers have delayed planned demonstrations in central Chisinau until Nov. 22-23. The group initially planned to protest Nov. 21-22 to demand that the government increase aid to the agricultural sector in response to grain imports from Ukraine. The date change allows the farmers' protest to coincide with a minibus drivers' protest on the same day. Agricultural sector workers will likely drive tractors and other vehicles into central Chisinau to create traffic and business disruptions. Participants will gather at entrances to the city on Nov. 22 before converging on Great National Assembly Square Nov. 23. Organizers expect about 1000 farmers and 300 minibus drivers to participate.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased security presence to monitor the protests. The demonstrations and associated security measures, including road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions. Isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if activists attempt to breach any security cordons.