Germany: Climate activists continue campaign of roadblock protests in Berlin, through early May

Event

The environmental activist group Letzte Generation are continuing a campaign of roadblock protests in Berlin, through early May. As of the early morning of May 2, the group has blocked multiple routes across the city. The activists are demanding lower speed limits and other measures to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Local authorities report that activists have conducted around 80 roadblocks since mid-April; further events are likely in the coming days. Similar protests are possible in major urban centers across Germany.

Protesters will typically target busy roads in the morning peak travel period. The protests occur without warning and target major city roads, ring roads, and access to airports. Police will respond rapidly. Protests typically last for 30 minutes to one hour before police remove protestors. Activists increasingly use super glue to attach themselves to road surfaces to slow down response operations. Alternatively, protesters may march slowly along busy roads, creating traffic congestion without forming a static roadblock. Traffic delays are likely on affected routes, and congestion will likely build on surrounding routes. While protesters are unlikely to act violently, security services may resort to forceful methods to disperse protests; additionally, scuffles between protesters and frustrated motorists are possible. Activists may also conduct short-notice acts of civil disobedience at government buildings or fossil fuel-related businesses.

Advice

Avoid all protest sites if possible. Check for disruptions before beginning journeys and plan alternative routes if necessary. Heed instructions from security services and do not attempt to pass through roadblocks.