China: Activists plan to protest in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, Nov. 29 against COVID-19 curbs

Event

Activists plan to protest at Civic Center and Seg Plaza in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, from 20:00 Nov. 29. Participants intend to denounce the government's strict COVID-19 curbs and hold a vigil for the victims of a fatal residential fire in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Demonstrations in other locations cannot be ruled out. Dozens to a few hundred people may participate should any gatherings occur.

Security personnel will almost certainly deploy heavily at Civic Center and Seg Plaza Nov. 29. Enhanced security measures, such as road barricades and increased patrols, are likely at government buildings, transport hubs, major roadways, landmarks, and public squares in Shenzhen. Police are usually quick to respond to protests and could use force to disperse gatherings that occur, especially if demonstrations take on an anti-government tone. Police could conduct mass arrests if participants refuse to disperse when ordered to do so. Clashes between security officers and protesters cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are possible near protest areas due to preemptive road and subway station closures by officials.

Context

Chinese authorities continue to respond to new COVID-19 outbreaks in the country with strict measures, such as mass testing and lockdowns, as part of its zero-COVID-19 strategy. Protests denouncing the restrictions have occurred in several Chinese cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, since Nov. 25 following a residential fire in Urumqi that resulted in fatalities allegedly due to delayed evacuation measures caused by COVID-19 curbs. Police have deployed heavily to monitor previous rallies and reportedly detained several protesters. While most gatherings have passed off peacefully, clashes between security personnel and protesters occurred during related protests at Foxconn's plant in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, Nov. 22-23. Further civil unrest against the measures remain possible over the coming days and could turn disruptive especially in areas under lockdown for prolonged periods.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for violence. If clashes break out nearby, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Seek updated information on roads in the area and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Remain cooperative if stopped or questioned by security personnel. Carry identification at all times.