Location: Announced gathering points include, but are not limited to:
- Vienna’s 1st District city center, particularly within and along the Ring Road.
- Schwechat (near Vienna International Airport) and along Simmeringer Hauptstraße between Vienna and Schwechat.
Events: All three demonstrations listed below are protests against Austria’s COVID-19 measures, including mandatory vaccinations.
- Thursday, January 27, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.: MuseumsQuartier, Mariahilferstrasse, and the Platz der Menschenrechte.
- Friday, January 28, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: A demonstration consisting of vehicles will start in Schwechat and travel by convoy along the following route – Wiener Strasse in Schwechat via Simmeringer Hauptstraße – Rennweg – Schwarzenbergplatz – Ring (two laps) – Franz-Josefs-Kai (two laps) – Schwarzenbergplatz and back to Schwechat. Expect significant traffic delays and disruptions to public transportation.
- Saturday, January 29: 11:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.: 1st District, Schwarzenbergplatz, the Ring, and Heldenplatz – Affected areas include the Ring Road, Heldenplatz and Schwarzenbergplatz.
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 these registered demonstrations, flash protests are always possible. Counter-protests are possible. Expect a heavy police presence, and traffic and public transportation disruptions. Vienna ordinances now prohibit demonstrations in business areas during opening hours, however some groups have called for spontaneous gatherings in defiance of these ordinances.
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
+43 1 313-39-7535 (weekdays 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
+43 1 313-39-0 (after hours, weekends and holidays)
ConsulateVienna@state.gov
Department of State – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
To receive security alerts by e-mail, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at https://step.state.gov/