Poland: Protesters gather nationwide for third day of demonstrations against abortion ruling October 24 /update 2

Event

Thousands of protesters gathered in urban centers nationwide on Saturday, October 24, to denounce a court ruling on Thursday, October 22, which further restricted abortion services in the country. In Łódź, several hundred people gathered in the vicinity of Piotrkowska where they held a march. In Katowice, scuffles broke out between protesters and police as they marched from the city center to the offices of the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS). Demonstrators also gathered outside of the PiS office in Gdynia on Starowiejska Street where some protesters kicked down the office's door before police intervened using tear gas. Gatherings were also held outside of PiS offices in Gdańsk and Warsaw. Further protests are expected to occur nationwide on Sunday, October 25.

Further associated rallies and counter-protests regarding the court ruling should be anticipated in major cities in the medium term.

Advice

Those in Poland are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.