U.S. Embassy Vienna advises of multiple demonstrations expected throughout Vienna this weekend. Expect a large police presence and major disruptions to traffic and ground public transportation.
Location: Announced gathering points include, but are not limited, to Vienna’s 1st, 2nd and 10th districts.
Events:
- Saturday, Oct. 14, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM: Several hundred people from the group called “Out of the WHO” are expected to gather at Heldenplatz in the 1st District and convoy throughout the city calling for Austria to remain neutral in international health regulations. The opening rally will begin at Heldenplatz, followed by the mobile convoy of several hundred vehicles around the city, and concluding with speeches and music back at Heldenplatz until 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 14, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM: Approximately 200 people demonstrating “Freedom for Palestinians” are expected to gather in Columbusplatz in the 10th District. There will be strong police presence at this event that will impact traffic patterns in and around this area.
- Saturday, Oct. 14, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Approximately 150 members of “Kurds in Austria” will meet at Herbert von Karajan Platz (adjacent to the Opera House) and will move to Tegetthoffgasse, Pasteurgasse, Seilergasse, concluding at Stephansplatz.
- Sunday, Oct. 15, 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Police expect 50 to 100 demonstrators will gather at Karmeliterplatz calling for the removal of “Nazis” from the 2nd District. The group will rally at Karmeliterplatz and march to Hauptallee.
- Sunday, Oct. 15, 2:00 PM: Police expect 150 protestors to gather at Stephansplatz for a “Demonstration for Palestine – Vienna”. A heavy police presence is expected.
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 and has the potential for violence to erupt. In addition to these registered demonstrations, unsanctioned flash protests are possible. U.S. Embassy employees and family members have been advised to avoid the demonstration areas.
Actions to take:
- Avoid the area of demonstrations.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you see something that seems odd or out of place, immediately notify the nearest law enforcement officer and move away from the area.
- Always carry your cellphone, programmed with local emergency numbers; Austrian Police (133), Ambulance (144), Fire (122), Europe-wide emergency (112).
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Follow the instructions of authorities and road signs regarding closures and detours.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Vienna – Consular Section
Parkring 12A (Marriott Hotel Building), Vienna, 1190, Austria
U.S. Citizens emergencies ONLY: +43-1-31-3390
E-mail: 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
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