Location: Bern and Zurich, Switzerland
Events: Demonstrations in Bern and Zurich
On Friday, February 25, from 6:45pm until 8:00pm, there will be a demonstration which will include regular Friday bicycle demonstrators riding through Bern. Due to the weather, participants could be larger in number. Traffic will be disrupted at times. The exact route of the cyclists is unknown to the local police.
On Saturday, February 26, from 10:00am until 11:30am, a couple hundred demonstrators are expected to gather at the Helvetiaplatz, in support of Ukraine. Local police are expecting it to be peaceful and will be on location to monitor the scene. Certain traffic disruptions may be possible.
On Saturday, February 26, from 12:00pm until 1:30pm, a pro-Ukrainian demonstration organized by the Young Green Party will gather at the Schützenmatte (Reithalle) and march through the town of Bern to include a probably gathering at the Bundesplatz. Local police are expecting a couple hundred participants at this demonstration.
On Saturday, February 26, from 2:00pm onwards, AntiFa is calling upon its supporters to demonstrate in Bern and Zürich. There is a possibility of a few hundred demonstrators. Police will be present.
Actions to take:
· Exercise vigilance and heightened situational awareness over the coming days
· Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, churches, tourist locations, and transportation hubs
· Be aware of your surroundings
· Keep a low profile
· Be prepared for potential traffic and public transportation disruptions.
· Monitor local media:
o https://www.bernerzeitung.ch/ (German)
o www.swissinfo.ch (English)
o www.20min.ch (German, French, Italian)
. Maintain social distancing, follow hygiene requirements, and follow the Swiss crowd limitation requirements
· Avoid groups that are not following the security requirements and/or local laws
· Review your personal security plans
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Bern, Switzerland
031 357 70 11 (dialing within Switzerland)
+41 31 357 70 11 (dialing from overseas)
BernACS@state.gov
State Department – Bureau of Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada)
+1-202-501-4444 (from other countries)
Switzerland Country Specific Information
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