18 Jun 2021 | 08:53 AM UTC
Spain: Pro-Saharawi activists to demonstrate in central Madrid, June 18 and 19
Pro-Saharawi activists plan to demonstrate in central Madrid, Spain, from 12:30 June 18 and 12:00 June 19. Ground travel delays likely.
Event
Activists from March for the Freedom of the Saharawi People will demonstrate in Madrid June 18 and 19 to demand the independence of Western Sahara. Scheduled gatherings are listed below.
June 18: Demonstrators will gather at Puerta del Sol from 12:30 before marching to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation.
June 19: Activists will march from Plaza de Espana to Puerta del Sol from 12:00.
Hundreds of people are likely to attend the gatherings. Additional police will likely deploy to monitor the actions. Large numbers of people and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions along the demonstration routes.
Current COVID-19 measures in Spain place restrictions on public gatherings; police may attempt to disperse activists if they are deemed to be breaching these restrictions. The demonstrations are likely to proceed peacefully, though isolated clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Avoid the demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in Madrid during scheduled demonstrations.
