Traffic disruption likely in Helsinki as Elokapina holds demo on Friday

Elokapina (Extinction Rebellion Finland) is scheduled to organise a demonstration in Helsinki on Friday, which may cause significant traffic disruption for an extended period of time in the centre of Helsinki, police said in a press release on Thursday.

The police can direct traffic to alternative routes if necessary.

Extinction Rebellion will demonstrate in the centre of Helsinki from 13.00. The police were notified of the demonstration.

According to the notification, the demonstration will consist of four different processions.

“The police always negotiate with the organiser of the demonstration to ensure that the demonstration would not cause unreasonable disturbance to other citizens. If the demonstration is carried out in significant violation of the law, endangers public order and safety, or obstructs traffic, the police may interfere with the course of the event by issuing instructions and orders or, ultimately, by ending the demonstration”, said Superintendent of Police Jarmo Heinonen.

The role of the police is to safeguard the freedom of expression of the demonstrators, public order and safety, and the rights of the citizens of Helsinki.