14 Aug 2024 | 03:52 PM UTC
Bulgaria: LGBTQ rights protest and counterdemonstration planned outside the Presidency in downtown Sofia, Aug. 15
LGBTQ protest and counterdemonstration planned in Sofia, Bulgaria, 18:30 Aug. 15. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Rival demonstrations are planned outside the Presidency in Atanas Burov Square in central Sofia at 18:30 on Aug. 15. Pro-LGBTQ rights activists have organized their protest to denounce proposed laws that would outlaw "LGBTQ promotion" in schools and demand that President Rumen Radev veto the bills. Counterdemonstrators will gather at the same time to advocate for family values. Several hundred people will likely attend each event.
Authorities will almost certainly impose heightened security measures to secure the two gatherings and ensure rival demonstrators do not come into contact. Although the two events will probably remain largely peaceful, confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers or between activists from opposing camps cannot be ruled out. Localized disruptions are likely in the area through the evening.
Avoid the gatherings as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling in central Sofia on the evening of Aug. 15. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
