Germany: Hundreds protest far-right demonstrations in Berlin August 18

Event

Hundreds of people have participated in protests in Berlin on Saturday, August 18, denouncing far-right demonstrations planned in the city on the same day commemorating the death of Nazi figure Rudolf Hess. Though fewer than 50 people reportedly participated in a far-right, neo-Nazi demonstration in Spandau borough, a larger related demonstration was planned to be held at a different location in Friedrichshain. At least one police officer was wounded as counterprotesters clashed with far-right protesters amid a heightened police presence of some 2300 officers deployed across the city. Sit-in counterprotests were reported in Lichtenburg, obstructing a planned far-right protest march.

Further clashes between far-right demonstrators and counterprotesters cannot be ruled out in the coming hours. Additional related protests are possible in Berlin over the coming hours and days. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near demonstration sites.  

Advice

Individuals in Berlin are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.