Security Alert: September 28, 2021 Protest Activity in Bulgaria
Location: Between 0930 and 1230 on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, various groups will demonstrate against COVID restrictions imposed by the government on businesses and transportation. The demonstration activity will be concentrated in downtown Sofia on “Oborishte” Street, “Vasil Levski” Boulevard, and “Tsar Osvoboditel” Boulevard and will finish in the vicinity of the Presidency and Parliament. Media reports state 3000 – 4000 participants are expected along with 50 buses and 1000 taxis. In addition to Sofia, demonstrations are also expected in Plovdiv, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Pleven, Haskovo, Yambol, Ruse, Vidin, Blagoevgrad, and Dobrich.
Event: All U.S. Citizens are recommended to avoid the areas impacted by demonstration activities for the duration of the events. Road closures and a significant police presence around the downtown area will lead to heavier than normal traffic and delays throughout downtown Sofia. Please note that road closures and demonstration locations can change quickly.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid areas of demonstrations.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly found in the vicinity of large gatherings or demonstrations.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
In the event of an emergency or if you require assistance, U.S. Citizens are advised to call the poice (#112), seek a safe location, and wait for assistance from the police.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and to make it easier to locate you in an emergency. The Department uses these security messages to convey information about terrorist threats, security incidents, planned demonstrations, natural disasters, etc.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Sofia, Bulgaria
+359-2-937-5100 (business hours)
+359-2-937-5101 (after hours)
ACS_Sofia@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Bulgaria Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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