Right-wing and left-wing demonstrations in Vienna on Saturday and the police are preparing
Vienna is expected to witness one of the largest far-right demonstrations of the year next Saturday, with around 500 people gathering from various parts of Europe between 1 PM and 9 PM, moving through the city center under the slogan "Raising Awareness Among Passersby About Asylum and Immigration Policies in Vienna." Several stands will be organized in pedestrian areas.
In contrast, leftist groups are preparing to organize counter-protests, including gatherings in Stefan Square and Viblinger Street, as well as a march organized by the communist youth under the title "Against the Revival of Fascism," which will parade down Ring Street in the afternoon. Leftist circles refer to the right-wing demonstration as a "deportation march" and are calling for mobilization against it.
Austrian police are preparing for a difficult day, as they are still planning to secure the event. The plan includes deploying uniformed units, plainclothes officers, and special units for public safety. The Constitutional Protection Agency will also be in the field, given the possibility of participation from new Nazis and troublemakers from countries like France and Germany. Disruptive actions by activists from the 'Antifa' movement are also not ruled out. In the 'Margareten' district, which is expected to host far-right gatherings on the eve of the demonstration, a colorful event will be held on Friday organized jointly by all local parties, except for the Freedom Party (FPÖ) and the People's Party (ÖVP). The event will take place in front of the 'Identity' group headquarters, with participation from the 'QWien' center for LGBTQ+ individuals, featuring performances by transgender artists, sending a clear message against extremism and discrimination.
In a rare move, the Green Party united with the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) to support the event. The district head, Michael Luxenberger, stated: "Our goal is to stand united against hatred and the far right, and to protect the diversity and way of life in the Margareten district." In the city center, a right-wing demonstration will start from Karl-Lueger Square, passing through several streets to Am Gestade Street where the final rally will be held. Three other counter-demonstrations have also been announced to the police, including rallies at several locations under the slogan "Racism has no place in Vienna," and a rally at Stephansplatz titled "No Nazis in the city center," which is expected to attract around 50 participants.
The Communist Youth march will start from Heldenplatz and will pass through several busy streets, attracting several hundred demonstrators. Due to the numerous events, authorities warn of significant traffic disruptions in downtown Vienna, affecting public roads and public transport.