Slovakia: Protest to denounce COVID-19 restrictions scheduled in Bratislava March 19-21

Event

Activists and political groups are planning to protest in Bratislava March 19-21 to denounce restrictive measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Daily demonstrations are scheduled at 14:00 on Slobody Square. The US Embassy has warned that protesters could also gather in other areas, including the Old Town, Hodzovo Square, Alexandra Dubceka Square, any government buildings, the US Embassy, and Bratislava Castle.

Participation will likely reach the thousands. Additional police will deploy to monitor the protest; related security measures, including possible movement restrictions, could prompt disruptions. Current COVID-19 measures place restrictions on public gatherings, and police could move to disperse illegal gatherings. Clashes between participants and security forces cannot be discounted following similar scenes at related events in the past; any bystanders would face an indirect threat near any violence.

Advice

Remain alert and allow additional time for travel near Slobody Square and other potential protest locations March 19-21. Avoid any demonstrations as a routine security precaution. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.