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Sidney (AFP) – Thousands of people marched in Australia’s capital on Saturday to protest anti-Covid vaccination mandates, at a time when major mobilizations of this type are taking place in various parts of the world.
Protesters marched through the streets of Canberra to gather outside Parliament, some waving the red Australian flag, an emblem associated with “sovereign citizens” who claim national laws do not concern them.
Many protesters, including children, displayed banners with messages such as “Fight for your freedom and your rights” and “No to imposed drugs”, with a drawing of a syringe.
Police estimated that about 10,000 protesters turned out and that they were generally on “good behavior.” There were three arrests.
Some 94% of people over the age of 16 in Australia have at least two doses of vaccines against covid, according to the authorities.
In the country, the vaccine is voluntary, but it is mandatory for people who enter the country and for those who work in professions considered risky, such as caring for the elderly.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is due to call a general election in mid-May, called on protesters to protest peacefully.
The government also indicated that it understands the concerns of the protesters but that it is the states and not the federal government that imposes many of the obligations to get vaccinated.
© 2022 AFP
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