29 Apr 2024 | 01:04 PM UTC
Slovakia: Activists to demonstrate in Bratislava May 2
Opposition activists to protest at Namestie Slobody in Bratislava, Slovakia, from 18:00 May 2. Heightened security likely.
Opposition activists affiliated with the Progressive Slovakia (Progresivne Slovensko) party plan to protest at Namestie Slobody (Freedom Square) in Bratislava from 18:00 May 2. The purpose of the demonstration is to denounce planned legislation dissolving public broadcaster Radio and Television of Slovakia (RTVS). It is unclear how many participants may attend; however, previously related anti-government demonstrations drew several thousand participants.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the protest site. Previous related demonstrations remained largely peaceful; however, confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the affected area as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling near Namestie Slobody in the late afternoon or evening. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur.
Since December, the Progressive Slovakia party and other opposition groups have consistently organized anti-government demonstrations in response to government reforms they deem undemocratic. Thousands of demonstrators gathered on several occasions in Bratislava and other cities in late 2023 and early 2024 to announce plans to dissolve a special prosecutor's office primarily tasked with investigating corruption.
