Europe: Further protests denouncing official policy responses to COVID-19 likely in major cities through at least February /update 1

Event

Sporadic protests will likely continue in cities across Europe through at least the end of February as residents denounce restrictions imposed to combat coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as well as their economic consequences, particularly for the hospitality industry. Activists could demonstrate outside government offices or at prominent locations in city centers; vehicular go-slow protests are possible. Public transport workers may hold strikes or other forms of labor actions.

The COVID-19 measures currently in place in most European cities restrict public gatherings to some extent. Local police will likely monitor protests and may attempt to disperse larger gatherings. Low-level skirmishes and, in some cases, wider confrontations, are possible. Localized traffic and transport disruptions are likely.

In addition, though a large proportion of demonstrations involve hospitality workers, the adoption of the COVID-19 issue as a rallying point by both far-left and far-right-wing groups means that some protests could also prompt counterdemonstrations, posing a potential for clashes between rival activists.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Monitor local media for updates on such gatherings, as organizers may not announce details in advance. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow the instructions of security personnel. Allow additional time for travel near known or possible demonstration venues.