Location: Multiple locations in and around downtown Vienna, including U.S. Embassy Vienna
Events:
- On Saturday, October 21, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators will hold a rally and march beginning at Haus der Europäischen Union (EU Offices), Wipplingerstrasse 35, 1st district. Demonstrators will then march to the University of Vienna (Universitatsring 1) and conclude near U.S. Embassy Vienna (Boltzmanngasse, 9th district). Expect a significant police presence and multiple disruptions to traffic patterns and ground public transportation.
- On Saturday, October 21, beginning at 4:00 p.m., several hundred members of the Group for Organized Anti-Fascism will demonstrate against anti-Semitism, racism and Islamism. An opening rally will begin at Christian-Broda-Platz near the Westbahnhof train station in the 7th district, with participants then expected to march down Mariahilferstrasse, and across the Donau Canal to conclude at Karmeliterplatz (2nd district).
- On Saturday, October 21, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Green party will hold a rally against anti-Semitism at Ballhausplatz (next to the Austrian Chancellery), 1st district.
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.
Austria Security Update: On October 18, the Austrian Ministry of Interior announced that Austria’s terror threat level was being raised from level three (medium) to level four (high); Austrian authorities stated that this was not due to any Austria-specific threat, but rather based on the evolving situation in the Middle East. Expect increased police presence at transit hubs, tourist sites and other crowded locations.
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
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