On 30 April 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Bern issued a Demonstration Alert, which reads in part as follows: “May Day demonstrations, both organized and spontaneous, are expected to occur throughout Switzerland in recognition of International Workers’ Day today, May 1st.
“Bern authorities have advised a demonstration is planned for 2:00 PM at Zytglogge. While this demonstration is not authorized, authorities are expecting 100+ people to be present.
“Historically, May Day rallies progress into the evening and night, so gatherings and demonstrations are expected around Bern all afternoon and evening.
“Additionally, an anti-COVID demonstration is also planned for 2:00 PM at Bundesplatz. Some left-wing groups have called for a prohibition on any demonstrations not associated with May Day which presents the possibility of conflict between groups around Bern. Affected areas may include Old Town Bern, Bahnhofplatz, Bärenplatz and Bundesplatz.
“Bern Police will be deployed in force this weekend and closely monitoring the situation.”
The full text of the alert is available here.
