Greece: Migrant rights activists plan to protest in Athens Aug. 19

Event

Activists plan to protest in Athens Aug. 19 to denounce Greek immigration policy after recent deaths of migrants at the border with Turkey. Participants plan to gather at Monastiraki Square from 19:00. Attendance will likely be in the hundreds.

Authorities will deploy additional security personnel to police the action. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out; security services could resort to riot control measures such as tear gas and water cannon against unruly crowds. While bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence they would face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Advice

Avoid the protest 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 the affected area the evening of Aug. 19.