The Catalan police will have to manage the rally called by the xenophobic and far-right movement Save Europe Act, holding its first major event in Spain with Reconquista España, and the counter-demonstration organized by the Coordinadora Antifeixista de Barcelona and Som Antifeixistes to "confront" their arrival.
Police sources consulted avoid anticipating the outcome or the level of conflict, but confirm that "necessary resources" have been mobilized to guarantee the right of assembly and freedom of expression for both groups. The main challenge will be managing the convergence of ideologically opposed groups in a sensitive location like Sant Jaume Square, situated between the Palau de la Generalitat and Barcelona City Hall.
The first rally, by the anti-fascist collectives, is scheduled for 6:00 PM, while the Save Europe Act event will begin an hour later, at 7:00 PM. The Ministry of the Interior has warned that action will be taken against any conduct constituting a criminal or administrative offense, especially if speeches inciting "hatred, hostility, discrimination, or violence" are detected.
This event in Barcelona is Save Europe Act's first major rally in Spain and will serve to gauge its mobilization capacity and the response it generates. The movement plans to continue its tour in other European cities, including an event in Madrid on August 29th. Save Europe Act advocates for "remigration" and the preservation of European "ethnic identity," proposals that were rejected by the European Commission as contrary to EU values.
Barcelona City Council, through its first deputy mayor, Laia Bonet, has stated that the demonstration "is not welcome," although security will be guaranteed. Bonet recalled that the right to demonstrate is a fundamental right and that the communication competence lies with the Generalitat.
In Spain, Save Europe Act has found support among representatives of Vox, such as its leader Santiago Abascal and party deputies. Also listed among the Spanish signatories is far-right activist Ada Lluch. Vox MP in the Parliament, Alberto Tarradas, is also expected to participate.
