Flag

An official website of the United States government

Demonstration Alert – Saturday, July 29, 2023
5 MINUTE READ
July 28, 2023

U.S. Embassy Vienna, Austria, advises of several demonstrations expected in downtown Vienna on Saturday, July

Location: Announced gathering points include, but are not limited to, Vienna’s 1st District

Events:

  • At least 1,000 self-described “Antifa” protestors plan to gather in the 1st District at Neuer Markt, Am Hof, and Schillerplatz from 10:00 a.m. to demonstrate against Naziism and closed borders. Around 2:00 p.m. the group is expected to march within the 1st District, which will likely cause traffic disruption, delays, and/or road closures. The specific march route is unknown.
  • On the same day, at 3:00 p.m., an estimated 500 – 1,000 self-described Identitarian (right-wing) protesters are expected to demonstrate against migration and in support of closed borders. Participants will gather at Albertina-Helmut Zilk Platz in the 1st District and march through central old town Vienna to Freyung. This will likely also cause traffic disruption, delays, and/or road closures.

There will be a heavy police presence throughout the 1st district, with additional officers deployed from nearby states. Most demonstrations in Vienna are peaceful, orderly, and well-policed. However, all demonstrations and protests should be avoided as they are often unpredictable in nature. In addition to registered demonstrations, flash protests are always possible. U.S. Embassy employees and family members have been advised to avoid the demonstration areas if possible.

Actions to take:

  • Avoid the areas of demonstrations.
  • Follow the instructions of authorities and road signs regarding closures and detours.
  • Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
  • Monitor local media for updates.
  • Keep a low profile.

Assistance:

U.S. Embassy Vienna – Consular Section
Parkring 12A (Marriott Hotel Building), Vienna, 1190, Austria
+43-1-31-339-0
Email: ConsulateVienna@state.gov
Embassy website: at.usembassy.gov

Department of State – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444

Austria Country Information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Austria.html

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates at https://step.state.gov/.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@USEmbVienna)