Demonstration Alert: Bratislava (Slovakia), Demonstration scheduled near the U.S. Embassy on March 25

Message: A gathering is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25th on Hviezdoslav Square starting at 5:30 P.M. for the commemoration of the 38th anniversary of the candlelight demonstration.

A student-led demonstration is also scheduled for Wednesday, March 25th on Hviezdoslav Square starting at 6:00 P.M.  Neither are expected to be anti-American in nature.

Expect possible increased foot traffic and public transportation disruptions and an increased police presence in the area and surrounding streets.  Counterprotests may occur.  Check local media for updates on demonstrations in your area.

Location: Hviezdoslav Square at 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM

Event: Expect increased foot traffic, possible traffic and public transportation disruptions, and an increased police presence in the area and surrounding streets.  Counterprotests may occur.  Check local media for additional updates on demonstrations.

Actions to Take:

• Avoid demonstrations, if possible;
• Be cautious of your surroundings and practice situational awareness at all times;
• Monitor local media for updates;
• Stay aware of spontaneous counter-protests;
• If altercations or violence occurs, remove yourself and any family/group members from the area immediately to a safe location (police officer, known public area, etc.);
• Set a predetermined time and location to meet with friends and family should you become separated.

Assistance:

• • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the U.S. Citizen Consular Information: Slovakia WhatsApp Channel  for STEP updates for U.S. Citizens.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia located at Hviezdoslavovo namestie 4 in Bratislava.
  • U.S. citizens emergencies only: +421-2-5922-3000.
  • To reach Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C., call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • Visit the webpage of the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava
  • Department of State – Consular Affairs – travel.state.gov 
  • Slovakia Country Information