Security Tips - Archive

Security Notice: Protests in Italy, June 8-10, 2007

According to local authorities, protests are likely during the June 8 – 10 visit of U.S. President Bush to Rome. Large numbers of activists are expected to participate in protests in Italy on Saturday, June 9. A planned demonstration will take place on June 9 at Piazza del Popolo in Rome. Another planned demonstration on June 9 will pass through much of Rome’s center, beginning at 1500 in Piazza della Repubblica, traveling along Via dei Fori Imperiali to Piazza Venezia, onto Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, and concluding at Piazza Navona. The full route of the demonstration is:

- viale Einaudi
- Piazza dei Cinquecento
- Via Cavour
- Largo Corrado Ricci
- via dei Fori Imperiali
- Piazza Venezia
- via di San Marco
- via delle Botteghe Oscure
- Largo di Torre Argentina
- Corso Vittorio Emanuele II
- Piazza Navona

Other spontaneous demonstrations at locations throughout the country, including near the U.S. Embassy in Rome, consulate facilities in Milan, Florence, and Naples, U.S. military installations, and U.S.-affiliated commercial enterprises, are also possible. To avoid becoming targets of opportunity, Americans should avoid the demonstrations, bearing in mind that violence may erupt. There will also likely be traffic flow disruptions and significant police activity in the area of the demonstrations. Italian authorities are enhancing security measures in anticipation of the protests. U.S. citizens should monitor local media and the Embassy website for updated information on the planned demonstrations.