Switzerland: Pro-Kurdish demonstrations in Bern on April 7

Event

Security officials expect approximately 1000 pro-Kurdish demonstrators to rally in Bern beginning at 16:00 (local time) on Saturday, April 7. Demonstrators are reportedly planning to stage a march through downtown Bern. According to local sources, the demonstration has not been authorized by Bern police. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected along the march route and in the vicinity of all gatherings.

Context

Members of the Kurdish community have organized the demonstration to protest an ongoing Turkish military operation in Syria, launched on January 21. That operation is targeting the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in the Afrin region of Syria.

Advice

Individuals in Bern are advised to avoid any demonstrations, to anticipate transportation disruptions, and to report any suspicious behavior or objects to the police.