Spain: Free speech activists to protest in several cities nationwide Feb. 6-7

Event

Free speech activists plan to protest in cities across Spain Feb. 6-7. The purpose of the action is to denounce the beginning of a musician's prison sentence following a conviction on charges of glorifying terrorism and insulting the Spanish monarchy. Organizers have slated protests for the following times and locations:

Feb. 6

• A Coruna: Obelisco starting at 1200

• Barcelona: Placa Comas starting at 1900

• Cordoba: Bulevar Gran Capitan starting at 1800

• Madrid: Plaza Jacinto Benavente starting at 1800

• Malaga: Plaza de la Constitucion starting at 1200

• Seville: Plaza de Espana starting at 1200

• Tarragona: Rambla Nova starting at 1800

• Vigo: Praza da Princesa starting at 1200

• Zaragoza: Ciudad Universitaria starting at 1830

Feb. 7

• Barcelona: Jardins de les 3 Xemeneies starting at 1200

• Bilbao: Plaza Moyua starting at 1230

Related protests could occur in cities and towns across the country Feb. 6-7. Attendance will vary by location but could exceed 1,000 at larger gatherings.

Additional police will likely deploy to all protests. Large numbers of people and associated security measures could prompt localized transport disruptions in protest areas; public transport may be suspended or diverted. Special restrictions on public gatherings are currently in force in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic; police may attempt to disperse activists deemed to be breaching these restrictions. Isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precauation and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from police and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow extra time for travel in protest affected areas.