17 Mar 2021 | 11:29 AM UTC
Spain: Free speech activists to protest in cities across Spain March 20
Activists to protest in cities across Spain March 20. Increased security, localized disruptions, clashes likely.
Event
Free speech activists plan to protest in cities across Spain March 20 to denounce the arrest of a musician, Pablo Hasel, who has been convicted on charges of glorifying terrorism and insulting the Spanish monarchy. Organizers have planned protests for the following times and locations:
Barcelona: Placa Universitat from 19:00
Cartagena: Alameda de San Anton from 19:30
Girona: Placa 1 de Octubre from 19:00
Leon: Subdelegacion del Gobierno from 18:00
Lleida: Placa Ricard Vines from 20:00
Malaga: Alameda de Colon from 18:00
Madrid: Atocha Station from 19:00
Palma de Mallorca: Placa d'Espanya from 19:00
Tarragona: Estatua dels Despullats from 18:00
Related protests are likely in additional cities and towns across the country, particularly in Catalonia March 20 and possibly March 21; 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. Previous protests over this issue escalated to violent clashes between protesters and police, particularly in Catalonia, including at actions in Barcelona, Lleida, and Girona. Further clashes are likely at actions March 20; security services may resort to riot-control tactics, such as tear gas and water cannon, in response. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face a significant indirect threat of harm.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution 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.
