Understanding Legal Risks
- Know Your Rights: Understand local laws regarding protests, including what legal actions authorities can take against protesters
- Legal Support: Have contacts for legal assistance readily available, and understand the process for obtaining legal help if arrested or detained.
Anonymity and Privacy/Avoid Digital Traces:
- Consider leaving electronic devices at home to avoid tracking and surveillance. If devices are necessary, ensure they are fully encrypted and location services are disabled.
- Masking Identity: Wear nondescript, unidentifiable clothing. Covering distinguishing features can prevent identification from photographs and video footage.
- Anonymous Communication: Use encrypted communication apps like Signal, and consider temporary or burner phones if communication during the protest is necessary.
Physical Safety
- Buddy System: Always move in groups, ensuring no one is left alone, especially in potentially dangerous situations.
- Medical Preparedness: Carry a basic first aid kit and know basic first aid techniques. Identify nearby medical facilities prior to attending the protest.
- Escape Routes: Plan multiple potential exit routes to safely leave the protest area if necessary. Stay aware of your surroundings and any changes in the situation.
Physical Safety
- Buddy System: Always move in groups, ensuring no one is left alone, especially in potentially dangerous situations.
- Medical Preparedness: Carry a basic first aid kit and know basic first aid techniques. Identify nearby medical facilities prior to attending the protest.
- Escape Routes: Plan multiple potential exit routes to safely leave the protest area if necessary. Stay aware of your surroundings and any changes in the situation.
Surveillance Avoidance
- No Biometric Unlocking:
Disable biometric unlocking features on devices since authorities could force individuals to unlock devices using biometrics. - Camera Awareness: Be aware of surveillance cameras and facial recognition technology deployed in public spaces.
- Avoid Regular Patterns: Change routes and routines regularly to avoid predictable patterns that could be monitored.
Behavioral Tactics
- Non-Confrontational Conduct: Maintain a calm and non-aggressive demeanor to avoid provocation and escalation with authorities.
- Strategic Planning: Understand the geography of the protest area to utilize natural crowd dynamics and terrain to maintain safety.
Community Support
- Network Building: Build networks of trust with other activists and groups to share information and resources safely.
- Support Systems: Establish support mechanisms for those who might be detained, including check-ins and resources for families.
Post-Protest Actions
- Debrief and Evaluate: After the protest, evaluate the effectiveness and discuss any security breaches or issues to improve future tactics.
- Care for Mental Health: Recognize the psychological impact of high-stress environments like protests and provide support or seek help if needed.