17 Jul 2024 | 08:47 AM UTC
Austria: Rival anti-immigrant and anti-racist groups plan demonstrations in Vienna July 20
Opposing activists plan demonstrations in Vienna, Austria, July 20. Increased security, localized disruptions likely. Clashes possible.
The far-right Identitarian Movement Austria (IBO) plans to march in central Vienna, July 20, demanding "remigration" (the forced expulsion of immigrant populations). In response, anti-racism campaigners are planning a counter-protest to denounce the anti-immigration demonstration. As of July 17, the exact timings and locations of the "remigration" event is not known; however, counterprotesters plan to gather at 15:00 in Neuer Markt. It is likely that several hundred people will attend each rival demonstration, based on the 2023 events.
Additional police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the protests and to keep rival activist groups apart. Large crowds and associated security measures will likely prompt transport disruptions in the protest areas; public transport services may be canceled or diverted. Activists seeking to circumvent security cordons may gather in other parts of the city. Isolated clashes are likely between rival groups of activists should they come into contact; clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Exercise increased vigilance if operating in affected areas of Vienna July 20; check for transport disruptions and allow extra time for travel. If possible, avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
In 2023, a similar "remigration" event attracted around 500 attendees. Counterprotesters repeatedly blocked the march route. Scuffles broke out between demonstrators and police. Some police and protesters were injured, and police arrested several dozen attendees.
