Location: Bern, Switzerland
Events: Sunday, November 28, 13.00pm – 17.00pm, approximately 5,000-10,000 demonstrators are expected to gather on the Bundesplatz, awaiting the results of the vote (COVID – Law). The local police will be out in large numbers and blockades will be set up. Traffic will be disrupted around the Bundeshaus during the given hours and following the election results.
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)
Swiss Federal Office of Public Health Hotline
+41 58 463 00 00 (staffed 24 hours in German, French, Italian and English)
Switzerland Country Specific Information
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
