SafeAbroad travelers in Hong Kong (China SAR) in the coming days should expect further protests against authorities’ moves to introduce new controversial security legislation that was approved on May 28th. Sporadic gatherings are expected in the coming days in the central business districts and central Kowloon.
On May 23, 2020, Chilean soldiers stepped in to disperse protests and shot rubber bullets into crowds of protesters regarding the COVID-19 lockdown which raised food prices. Santiago’s total lockdown began May 16 to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, fueling the anti-government protesters and resulting in violent riots between protesters and law enforcement.
At 1300 local time on May 24th, there will be a march related to a controversial national anthem bill along Hennessy Road between Southorn Playground to SOGO Causeway Bay. In addition, plans for a new security law could trigger short-notice protests despite the ban on public gatherings. There is a risk of unrest, fines, and restricted movement.
The Resistance to Capitulation Movement plans to hold a demonstration on Sunday, May 24 to protest against President Volodymyr Zelensky’s perceived concessions to Moscow. Protesters intend to gather at 14:00 (local time) at Independence Square. Expect related protests nationwide.
Tropical Storm Arthur is expected to hit Bermuda on May 21, 2020. Persistent heavy rainfall can trigger flooding in areas with a lack of storm drains, areas downstream from large reservoirs and areas that are low-lying. Winds and floodwaters are expected to impact transportation.
Super Cyclone Amphan is scheduled to hit India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan on May 20th, 2020. This will create violent wind speeds expected to exceed 150 MPH and torrential downpour resulting in high levels of humanitarian impact.
Flood warnings in the Rhone-Alpes region of France are expected to last until May 2. Warnings may cause evacuations of flood-prone areas. Operations at the Lyon airport (LYS) and all transportation including rail networks, streets, and bridges will be further disrupted due to COVID-19 transportation regulations already in place.
Demonstrations are planned in Paris for Friday 1 May. Demonstrators are expected to gather at the Court of Human Rights near Trocadero, the Place de la Bastille, and the Place de la Republique at unspecified times throughout the day to commemorate May Day/International Workers’ Day. Disobeying COVID-19 social distancing restrictions may lead to clashes with police.
Police are investigating an incident that took place on 27 April in Colombes, France. Police were reportedly conducting an ID check when a driver intentionally collided with officers resulting in severe injuries. Police later found a knife in the vehicle and reason to believe it may be terror-related.
On 19 April, clashes in Paris were reported between protesters and police. It has been reported by local media that police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters. Protesters threw fireworks and projectiles at security personnel in Villeneuve-la-Garenne and set several vehicles on fire. Reports indicate that the protests are in opposition to the heavy-handed enforcement by authorities upholding COVID-19 lockdown measures. Further protests can be expected.
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