Romania: Anti-government protest in Bucharest August 11 /update 5

Event

Anti-government protesters are staging a demonstration at Victory Square in Bucharest on the evening of Saturday, August 11 (local time), to denounce perceived poor governance and corruption, demand that the ruling government resign, and call for early elections.

Additional related protests have reportedly been planned in and near Victory Square on the weekend of August 11-12. A heightened security presence and road closures are expected near demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Saturday's protest comes after tens of thousands of people participated in a similar demonstration in Bucharest on August 10. Clashes broke out between demonstrators and riot police, leaving over 450 people wounded. Related protests were held the same day in other cities in the country.

Opposition protests over corruption are commonplace in Romania, which has the highest level of perceived corruption in the EU. Demonstrations have occurred regularly since December 2017, including protests in February in which at least half a million Romanians took to the streets.

Advice

Individuals in Romania, particularly in Bucharest, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Anticipate transportation disruptions near protest areas.