Demonstration Alert

Location:        Waisenhausplatz, Bern, Switzerland


Events:
         Saturday, May 22, beginning at 2:00 PM, local authorities expect demonstrators to gather on Waisenhausplatz to demonstrate against the Israeli – Palestinian conflict. Officials expect up to a couple hundred demonstrators to attend. Please be advised that there may be an increased police presence in the area and possible traffic disruptions during this time.


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
·         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

 

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