Poland: Environmental protests scheduled in Warsaw January 16

Event

The Extinction Rebellion (XR) civil society group has called for protests in Warsaw on Thursday, January 16, to demand greater government action regarding the ongoing nationwide bushfire crisis in Australia, among other issues. Participants plan to gather from 15:30 to 16:30 (local time) at Nowogrodzka 11 street. Another demonstration also took place from 09:00 to 10:00 at the same location.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near the demonstration site.

Context

Over 10.3 million hectares (25.5 million acres) of land have burned, and at least 2000 houses destroyed since the wildfires broke out in Australia on October 9 resulting in the death of at least 28 people as of January 13. Authorities have indicated that the fires were due to high temperatures and droughts.

Advice

Individuals in Warsaw are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.