Spain: Additional protests over free speech likely across Spain through at least Feb. 26 /update 1

Event

Additional protests by free speech activists are likely across Spain through at least Feb. 26 following days of continued demonstrations. The purpose of the action is to denounce the arrest of a musician, Pablo Hasel, who was convicted on charges of glorifying terrorism and insulting the Spanish monarchy. Associated demonstrations have taken place in multiple cities, including A Coruna, Barcelona, Girona, Las Palmas, Lleida, Madrid, Seville, Tarragona, Toledo, Vic, Vigo, and Zaragoza. Typical protest locations include central squares and thoroughfares, and outside government facilities. Similar or related protests are likely in additional cities and towns across the country, and particularly in the Catalonia region. Attendance will vary by location but could exceed 1,000 at larger gatherings.

Additional police will likely deploy to all protests. Large numbers of people and associated security measures could prompt localized transport disruptions in protest areas; public transport may be suspended or diverted. Special restrictions on public gatherings are currently in force in Spain due to the COVID-19 pandemic; police may attempt to disperse activists deemed to be breaching these restrictions.

Protests over this issue in recent days have escalated to violent clashes between protesters and police, particularly in Catalonia, including at actions in Barcelona, Lleida, and Girona. Activists engage the police in running battles in central squares and streets that include the use of makeshift barricades, setting fires, and throwing objects at security services. Rioters have also targeted police buildings and shops in those areas. Security services may resort to riot-control tactics, such as tear gas and water cannon, in response. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face a significant indirect threat of harm.

Context

Protests over this issue began Feb. 16, the day of Hasel's arrest, and have occurred daily since then. Actions typically begin peacefully before escalating to violence as night falls when the remaining participants are typically younger and more willing to engage in clashes with security services. Security services have made over 100 arrests linked with the protests since Feb. 16 and multiple injuries have been reported. Authorities are unlikely to accede to the activists' demands that Hasel is immediately released; therefore, protests relating to this issue are likely to continue in the short term.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from police and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Allow extra time for travel in protest-affected areas.