Poland: Nationalists to demonstrate in Warsaw Nov. 11 to mark Independence Day

Event

Nationalist activists are planning to demonstrate in Warsaw Nov. 11 to mark Independence Day. Participants intend to march from the Romana Dmowskiego roundabout to the Washington roundabout from 13:00; attendance could reach the tens of thousands. Further gatherings, both planned and spontaneous, are possible nationwide. Anti-fascist activists typically hold counterdemonstrations near any nationalist gatherings, which will increase the potential for confrontations and clashes around Independence Day events.

Police will likely deploy near any events to prevent clashes between rival activists and could attempt to disperse any gatherings deemed to be disruptive, which could prompt clashes. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted in any violence, they would face a significant indirect threat. Hooliganism and vandalism are possible through early Nov. 12. Commercial disruptions, road closures, and related traffic delays are possible near any mass gatherings.

Context

Nationalist groups have increasingly used Independence Day to revive allegations of historical Russian influence over Poland and protest the acceptance of ethnic and other minorities in Polish society. Although the majority of Independence Day gatherings pass peacefully, annual demonstrations in Warsaw have often been marked by violence in recent years.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules for disruptions, and allow additional time to reach destinations near related events.