10 Dec 2024 | 02:07 PM UTC
Germany: Syrian activists likely to continue demonstrations in major urban centers nationwide through mid-December
Syrian activists likely to continue demonstrations in major cities across Germany through mid-December. Tight security, disruptions likely.
Germany's Syrian diaspora will likely continue to stage mass rallies in urban centers nationwide through mid-December to mark the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. As of Dec. 10, several thousand demonstrators are rallying in Duisberg; in recent days, demonstrators have held similar events in Berlin, Hamburg, Leipzig, and many other cities. Authorities have described the events as peaceful and "exuberant." Further spontaneous events are likely in the coming days.
Separately, German authorities announced Dec. 9 that they would suspend asylum applications from Syrian refugees. This decision may prompt protests by the Syrian diaspora, and may also trigger counter-protests by right-wing parties.
Authorities will likely deploy heightened security to facilitate each event. Increased security, pedestrian congestion, and road closures will likely prompt localized traffic disruptions. The events will likely pass off peacefully.
Avoid the demonstration areas as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling near a protest or on major roadways into affected cities. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers.
