According to the digital portal Euronews, the demonstration, called by the far-right opposition Freedom Party of Austria (FPO), takes place after the conservative environmental government announced that those who refuse the shot will have to pay an initial fine of 600 euros (£510), which can then increase to 3,600 euros if not settled.

After ensuring that pregnant women and those disabled for health reasons are exempted from the provision, EuroNews reported that the Executive pointed out that the imposed vaccination is the only option to protect society and avoid continuing lockdowns.

Various sources also reported that to avoid disturbances during the march, more than 1,300 police officers were mobilized, detaining several protesters for committing alleged violent acts.

Austria´s government recently reported that the lockdown in force since last November 22 will end at Saturday midnight, at least for vaccinated people, with the purpose of curbing the increased Covid-19 infections.

According to official data, with a vaccination rate of 68%, 1.4 million people aged 14 have not yet been vaccinated.

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