27 Jan 2020 | 12:56 PM UTC
Spain: Pro-independence demonstrations in Barcelona January 27-28
Political group calls for pro-independence protests in Barcelona January 27-28; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
The political organization Catalan National Assembly (ANC) has called for protests in Barcelona on Monday, January 27, and Tuesday, January 28. On Monday, participants will gather at 15:00 (local time) in front the Parliament of Catalonia. On Tuesday, a related gathering will take place at the same location from 08:00 to 10:00 concurrent with the House Committee meeting where six imprisoned Catalan pro-independence politicians will make an appearance.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected near all demonstration sites.
Context
Significant protests took place in Catalonia in October 2019 following the two-year anniversary of a failed independence referendum on October 1, 2017. Several Catalan activists were consequently tried for their involvement in the referendum, which Madrid deemed illegal. On October 14, 2019, the Supreme Court sentenced nine of the defendants to between nine and 13 years in prison, prompting mass protests in Barcelona and other cities across Catalonia.
Advice
Individuals in Barcelona are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
