Netherlands: Environmental activists to demonstrate in Rotterdam May 24

Event

Environmental activists associated with Extinction Rebellion (XR) plan to stage a major protest in Rotterdam May 24 to denounce the fossil fuel industry. Activists will gather at Coolsingel 37, near Hofplein and City Hall, at 12:00 before proceeding to an as-yet-undisclosed location. Organizers have stated that the planned protest is intended to cause major disruptions; based on previous XR demonstrations, activists will likely block traffic at a major road junction or transport hub in central Rotterdam. Hundreds of people are likely to participate in the protest.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the action. The protest itself and related security measures will likely prompt significant localized transport disruptions in the affected area. Public transport normally routed through the area may be canceled or diverted. Localized business disruptions are also likely in connection with the protest activity.

While the action will probably proceed peacefully, as XR advocates for nonviolent civil disobedience, scuffles between demonstrators and police and/or frustrated commuters are possible. Police may attempt to forcibly disperse demonstrators, especially if activists significantly snarl the flow of traffic and refuse to follow authorities' instructions.

Advice

Check trusted local media sources for up-to-date information on the protest location; avoid the action if possible. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions before beginning journeys and allow extra time to reach destinations in the affected area. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.