New protest rules proposed as Cabinet targets masked demonstrators

The government plans to tighten regulations on protests and public demonstrations, with the most striking proposal being to prohibit clothing that conceals the face, which authorities say would help them track down and bring charges against those who cause disturbances. In addition, ministers want to curb protests that disrupt traffic by blocking railways or major roads.

The measure is intended to help authorities track down and bring charges against troublemakers, as they are frequently the ones who conceal their identity. At the same time, the rules will allow for exemptions, such as in cases where being recognizable could put demonstrators at risk because they escaped an authoritarian government.

Local governments, in particular, will be given extra backing to manage demonstrations properly. The caretaker government said on Friday that it is working on a set of supplementary measures to achieve this.

Under the proposed changes, those responsible for damage during protests could more readily be held financially liable. The Cabinet gave its backing to the draft legislation on Friday. The Cabinet will also examine additional options for prosecuting and punishing activists who occupy railway lines and highways or vandalize cultural heritage.

The government underlines that most protests take place peacefully and that the freedom to demonstrate remains a core constitutional right, allowing citizens to voice opposition to government policy or other concerns. However, it also argues that this right is frequently misused, making new measures necessary and requiring existing rules and policies to be strengthened.

As part of this review, the government is considering changes to the Municipalities Act that would give mayors clearer authority to relocate protestors or hold them temporarily. While similar powers already exist, the Cabinet believes a firmer legal basis could be more effective.