14 Aug 2024 | 10:37 AM UTC
Finland: Environmental activists plan protests in Helsinki and Kuopio Aug. 17
Environmental organization affiliates plan protests in central Helsinki and Kuopio, Finland, from 14:00 Aug. 17; increased security likely.
Environmental activists affiliated with several organizations plan to stage two protests in Helsinki and Kuopio on Aug. 17. The actions aim to denounce the government's policy on protecting Finnish forests. The main gatherings will be:
Helsinki: Participants will march from the Parliament House to Senate Square, from 14:00;
Kupio: Demonstrators will march from Niiranlakatu Street, by the City Theater, to Market Square from 14:00.
Several hundred to the low thousands of participants will likely attend the events. Other limited demonstrations will occur in minor settlements across Finland.
Authorities will likely deploy increased security to monitor the events. Localized transport and road travel disruptions are likely near the affected area. Violence is not likely. Associated gatherings in minor settlements in Finland's rural areas are unlikely to cause any notable disruptions.
Avoid the protest areas as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling in central Helsinki through at least the late afternoon on Aug. 17. Heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur.
