Munich, February 7 – The Bavarian capital is set to become the focal point of international politics and major protests as the Munich Security Conference (MSC) approaches. This year, not only will world leaders converge, but an unprecedented number of demonstrators are also expected to take to the streets, significantly impacting the city’s daily rhythm.
Over 120,000 Demonstrators Registered for MSC Protests
According to an overview from the Munich District Administrative Department, a total of 120,000 demonstrators have registered for various events during the MSC. This figure, as of February 6, encompasses 21 registered events scheduled between Wednesday and Sunday. This represents a substantial increase in protest activity compared to previous years, when demonstrations during the conference attracted only moderate participation.
While the conference hotel, the Bayerischer Hof, located near Marienplatz, is already a high-security zone with road closures and extensive police checkpoints, several of the planned demonstrations are likely to bring normal life to a standstill, at least temporarily, in other parts of the city.
Mass Rally on Theresienwiese Expected to Draw 100,000
The largest single demonstration is anticipated on Saturday at the Theresienwiese, organized by opponents of the Iranian leadership. The association “The Munich Circle” has registered 100,000 participants for its rally. The event, scheduled from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, is titled “Human Rights and Freedom in Iran. International Solidarity with the Iranian People.” The actual turnout and any conditions imposed by authorities remain to be seen.
Numerous Other Protest Events Across the City
On Saturday, starting at 12:30 PM, a demonstration against the Security Conference is planned in the city center between Marienplatz and Stachus, with an expected 4,000 participants. Not far away, at Odeonsplatz and Max-Joseph-Platz in front of the opera house, two separate demonstrations with 3,000 registered participants each are scheduled. These protests will address issues such as opposition to war, advocating for “the German government’s mandatory commitment to peace,” and promoting “free vaccination choice.”
Diverse Themes and Growing Numbers Expected
Many other demonstrations will also focus on protesting against Iran and the suppression in South Yemen, as well as against right-wing extremism in Germany. Notably, there has been no registered demonstration against the war in Ukraine so far. As additional demonstrations may still be registered, and some events have yet to report participant numbers, the overall figures and thematic scope are expected to grow. This will further increase the already heavy workload for the police during the Security Conference.
65 Heads of State and Government Expected at the MSC
The Munich Security Conference, widely regarded as the world’s most important expert meeting on security policy, will take place from February 13 to 15. According to the conference organizers, 65 heads of state and government have already confirmed their attendance. Foreign and defense ministers are also on the guest list. Among the most prominent guests are expected to be US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Friedrich Merz (CDU) will participate in the conference for the first time as Chancellor.
Source: https://www.kurier.de/inhalt.muenchner-sicherheitskonferenz-rekord-demos-rund-um-muenchner-sicherheitskonferenz-erwartet.1c9ebc4d-3234-4fe4-a2bf-16fc57171366.html
