Gear Up for dual Demonstrations in Berlin's Square this Weekend
This Sunday, Berlin's Alexanderplatz is set to see a massive gathering of around 7,000 participants at the "Freedom for the people of Gaza/peace demonstration," as reported by the local police. In a stark contrast, another demonstration, titled "Solidarity March with Israel," is scheduled to commence at Wittenbergplatz in the explorative Schöneberg district, with an estimated 500 participants.
At 2 p.m. on Saturday last week, around 9,000 individuals participated in a similar pro-Palestinian protest march. Various Palestinian groups across Germany had encouraged this event, with the police stating it had been generally peaceful yet making charges for potential incitement to hate speech.
Recent Palestinian Demonstrations and Police Intervention
While there's no explicit data available for the upcoming demonstrations this weekend, we can dive into Berlin's past pro-Palestinian protests. In February 2025, hundreds flocked near the Wittenbergplatz metro station, carrying flags emblazoned with Palestinian symbols and placards bearing slogans such as "Halt the aggression in the West Bank—Do not supply weapons to Israel" and "Freedom for Palestine."
The rally encountered frictions with police, who emphasized restrictions on Arabic-language chants and music and called for the demonstration to conclude. Around 50 protesters adamantly refused compliance, leading to a heavy police presence and multiple detainments.
Language restrictions and escalated tensions
Berlin's police have taken a staunch stance, demanding German or English be utilized for speeches, music, and chants in all demonstrations. Earlier instances, like the April 2024 pro-Palestine rally, also faced scrutiny for utilizing Arabic and Hebrew chants, with police intervening and threatening possible arrests.
These measures and past incidences have sparked debate among citizens, with concerns for political repression and the suppression of indigenous voices.
Preparing for the Berlin Solidarity Marches
The police have alerted the public to the scheduling of both events, with the pro-Palestinian demonstration at 3 p.m. on Sunday at Alexanderplatz and the “Solidarity March with Israel” at Wittenbergplatz starting at 2 p.m. Be mindful of traffic and accessibility arrangements in the area, hence follow travel advisories and stay informed about any possible changes.
