20 Mar 2024 | 02:42 PM UTC
Lithuania: Activists to stage protest march in central Vilnius March 23
Activists for ethnic minorities to march in Vilnius, Lithuania, from 11:30-13:00 March 23. Tight security, transport disruptions likely.
Activists representing ethnic minorities plan to march through central Vilnius on March 23. The purpose of the demonstration is to denounce alleged government attempts to close Polish- and Russian-language schools. Participants will gather at Independence Square from 11:30-12:00 before marching to the Government House of the Republic of Lithuania for a brief rally. From there, demonstrators will continue to Simon Daukanto Square, where they will rally from 12:30-13:00. The amount of participants that may attend remains unclear. The march and rallies may continue past their planned end times.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the march route. Though unlikely, low-level confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers or frustrated motorists cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the protest area as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling in central Vilnius March 23. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur.
