19 Jan 2024 | 09:18 PM UTC
Poland: Farmers to demonstrate nationwide Jan. 24
Farmers to protest across Poland during the afternoon of Jan. 24. Heightened security, transport disruptions likely.
Farmers plan to protest across Poland between the hours of 12:00-14:00 Jan. 24. The purpose of the demonstrations is to demand EU restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural products; the action follows recent similar farmers' protest campaigns in Germany. Demonstrators will disrupt vehicle traffic by driving tractors on roads across the country. One participating group plans to protest near the Podlaskie Voivodeship Office on Adam Mickiewicz Street in Bialystok; however, the campaign is highly decentralized without a main planning organization, and the vast majority of planned demonstration locations remain unclear.
Protests are likely on highways and at voivodeship offices around the country. Participating farmers may also attempt to block crossings along the border with Ukraine. Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased security near any demonstrations that may materialize. Low-level confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers or frustrated motorists cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Check route status before road travel and adjust driving routes accordingly. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.