Demonstration Alert

Location: Bern, Switzerland

Events: Several demonstrations, both organized and spontaneous, are expected to occur in Bern on Saturday, October 16, 2021.

  • Saturday, October 16, 14:00 – 15:30 “Against Corona Measures” demonstration, held at the Waisenhausplatz. A couple of hundred peaceful demonstrators are expected to attend.
  • Saturday, October 16, 15:00 – 16:30 “Against the killing of Eritrean refugees in Libya” demonstration, held at the Helvetiaplatz. A couple of hundred peaceful demonstrators are expected to attend.
  • Saturday, October 16, 15:00 – 16:30 “For Human Rights” demonstration. They will be marching from the Schützenmatte to the Waisenhausplatz. A couple of hundred peaceful demonstrators are expected to attend.

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

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook