Switzerland: Activists to demonstrate at different locations in Bern Jan. 23

Event

Activists plan to hold at least two separate demonstrations over different issues in Bern Jan. 23. Demonstrators plan to protest at the Bundesplatz from 1300 against the government's coronavirus disease (COVID-19) policies. Participation could number in the low hundreds.

Separately, activists plan to rally outside the US Embassy building from 1400 to show support for Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, who is currently involved in extradition proceedings enacted by the US. The gathering is likely to remain small-scale, but security will probably be heightened.

Additional police will likely deploy to monitor the demonstrations; related security measures could prompt localized transport disruptions near both protest locations. Switzerland restricts public gatherings to five people only; authorities may attempt to shut down the action if participants are deemed to be breaching these restrictions. Minor skirmishes are possible, especially near the Bundesplatz.

Advice

Avoid the demonstrations 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. Allow extra time for travel in affected areas Jan. 23.