23 Jun 2022 | 10:59 AM UTC
Spain: NATO Summit to take place amid tight security in Madrid June 28-30
Spain to host NATO Summit in Madrid June 28-30; increased security measures to prompt business and transport disruptions.
Event
The 2022 NATO Summit will be held in Madrid June 28-30. The event will primarily take place at the IFEMA fairgrounds in the northwest of the city, though related events and meetings will take place throughout the city over the course of the summit. Heads of state from NATO member countries in addition to thousands of foreign dignitaries, staff, and journalists will travel to Madrid for the event. Police will implement strict security measures throughout the city June 27-30 to facilitate the gathering. Anti-war protests against the summit are likely for the duration of the event.
The most severe security measures will be implemented around the IFEMA venue; authorities will almost certainly implement security cordons and road closures in the surrounding area and restrict access to accredited individuals only. Authorities have also confirmed that strict security measures, including movement restrictions, will be imposed in the Centro area of the city, and around the Moncloa Palace, Royal Palace, and the Museo del Prado to facilitate summit-related gatherings happening throughout the city. Additional security measures will also be imposed at Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), Torrejon Airbase, and other major transport hubs in the city, including rail stations, to facilitate the arrival and departure of high-level dignitaries; sporadic disruptions are likely on roads and transport hubs throughout Madrid as attendees are escorted to and from events. Madrid authorities anticipate significant transport disruption, particularly for road users, throughout the city for the duration of the summit and advise citizens to limit travel and use public transport where possible.
Several anti-war activist groups intend to stage an alternative "Peace Summit" in Madrid June 24-26 which will culminate in a demonstration on June 26. Activists will march from Atocha Station to Plaza de Espana from 12:00; attendance could reach into the thousands. Additional protests against the summit are likely June 26-30. Additional police will deploy to monitor all gatherings; related security measures such as road closures and movement restrictions will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions in surrounding areas. Most actions are likely to proceed peacefully though isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out, particularly if protesters attempt to breach security cordons around summit venues.
Advice
Confirm all travel arrangements if operating in Madrid June 26-30. Allow considerable extra time for travel, including at MAD, as increased security measures will cause transport disruptions. Check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules for disruptions and plan alternative routes if necessary. Verify appointments, as business closures could occur with little notice. Consider limiting exposure to the immediate vicinity of the event venue and other restricted areas. Avoid any demonstrations that occur. Heed all instructions from security services; leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
