Germany: Protesters to gather in Hamburg August 15

Event

Activists plan to gather in Hamburg on Saturday, August 15, to denounce restrictions imposed by authorities to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Participants are expected to gather at 15:00 (local time) at Jungfernstieg for several hours. Similar previous demonstrations have been well-attended, despite ongoing restrictions on public gatherings. Additional protests or counter-demonstrations are possible.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the vicinity of the demonstration. Localized travel disruptions should also be anticipated.

Context

German cities have seen several weeks of demonstrations organized by various groups against COVID-19-related restrictions, the largest of which have drawn several thousand attendees. Although these protests have generally passed peacefully, several have seen isolated clashes between demonstrators and police.

Although authorities in Germany began easing some COVID-19 restrictions from April 30, many measures remain in place, including social distancing and the continued closure of many non-essential businesses.

Advice

Those in Hamburg are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.