Movement Restrictions

The Ministry of the Interior announced a ban on recreational activities and indicated that police officers are ordered to "deal seriously" with those in violation. 

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Order No. 633

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection issued a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people in open and closed spaces, including political gatherings, holiday parties, wedding ceremonies, or funerals.

Introduced 17 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Normative Act

The normative act, issued by the government without parliamentary approval per Article 101 of Albania's Constitution, provides for fines to be levied on anyone who violates measures to contain the coronavirus. Among other provisions, participating in or organizing a political, social, or cultural gathering is subject to a fine of 5 million lek (40,000 Euros).

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune banned all protests, marches, demonstrations, and other mass gatherings, due to the coronavirus epidemic. His order also closes all public spaces suspected of being a hub for the virus.

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

State of Public Calamity

The state of calamity replaced the previous state of emergency on 26 May. Existing quarantine measures remain in Luanda province and around the Cazengo municipality (Cuanza Norte province). Travel in and out of Luanda and Cazengo remains prohibited and religious activities in these areas are also suspended. Gatherings of more than ten people are prohibited in public spaces, and no more than 15 people may gather in private spaces. Under the quarantine measures, a sanitary cordon can be established preventing the entry and exit of residents whenever the epidemiological situation requires it. In December 2020, all gatherings, including political rallies and protests were prohibited. A special recommendation is needed to move around during curfew hours between 10pm and 5am.

Introduced 26 May 2020 Continuously extended since introduction. Currently extended through 6/8/21.

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 82/20 on a State of Exception to Prevent and Control the Covid-19 Pandemic

The presidential decree declares a nationwide "state of exception." The decree grants the government power to limit individuals' freedom of movement and assembly, requisition private property, and forcibly confine people deemed likely to transmit COVID-19.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Police Brutality in Enforcing Lockdown

Angolan police have shot and killed a number of people in the course of enforcing lockdown measures. At least one video has circulated showing police violently assaulting a group of individuals for not complying with quarantine orders. In September 2020, hundreds marched in Angola’s capital to protest against police brutality after a doctor arrested for breaking anti-coronavirus rules died in custody.

Introduced 6 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

General Prevention Measures Decree 235/2021

The Decree suspends social gatherings of more than 10 people in private homes, and limits general capacity for activities in closed spaces to 50%. In areas of "high epidemiological risk" the Decree suspends activities and social gatherings in closed spaces regardless of the number of people, and limits gatherings in open-air public spaces to no more than 20 individuals. The Decree also restricts movement between midnight and 6 a.m.

The Decree empowers governors to establish additional measures on a "temporary, proportional and reasonable basis."

Introduced 8 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree 792/2020 on Social, Preventive and Compulsory Isolation

This decree imposes "social, preventive and mandatory distancing" in several provinces. Individuals are prohibited from leaving the community where they reside unless they carry a "Unique Enabling Certificate for Circulation - COVID-19 Emergency". Local authorities are empowered to regulate public circulation by time and zone restrictions, and to impose quarantine measures on incoming persons. 

Introduced 11 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

No. 297 of 2020 on Preventative and Mandatory Social Isolation

The decree mandates that all individuals self-isolate at their homes with minimal exceptions, in order to combat the spread of the coronavirus. The decree also prohibits gatherings of persons for any reason. According to the decree, the Ministry of Security will place permanent controls on public roads and routes as it deems necessary to limit movement and enforce compliance.

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 260 Declaring a Public Health Emergency

Declares a one-year "public health emergency" under Law No. 27,541, due to the pandemic. 

Argentina extended the public health emergency when it expired in March 2020, until December 31, 2021. The emergency decree recommends travel restrictions to/from affected and higher risk areas, and leaves implementation in the hands of the "competent authorities".

Introduced 12 Mar 2020 Extended through 31 December 2021

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Repression of Protests and Health Workers

Security forces repressed gatherings of civil society groups and trade associations representing health workers, protesting poor working conditions and the government's response to COVID-19. Medical professionals were sanctioned for speaking to the media about the failings of the official pandemic response.

Introduced 18 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Restrictive Practices against Journalists, Protest, and Movement

Provincial authorities limited journalists’ ability to cover the situation in Formosa, used excessive force against those protesting COVID-19 measures, and severely restricted the ability of people from Clorinda to leave their city and get health care.

Introduced 26 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression, Movement

Type: practice

Discriminatory Enforcement of COVID-19 Measures against Poor Communities

COVID-19 quarantines and  movement restrictions have been disproportionately enforced against people living in poor communities. Among 40,000 people arrested for violating such measures, most live in impoverished neighborhoods, where residents encounter difficulties complying with stay-at-home orders due to cramped living quarters and the need to work.

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: practice

No. 298-N Declaring a State of Emergency

The decree declares a "state of emergency" to respond to the novel coronavirus, and provides for the suspension of certain constitutional rights and freedoms, including freedom of movement and freedom of peaceful assembly. The decree prohibits public gatherings of more than 20 persons. The decree also provides that any dissemination of information, including online, that refers to the coronavirus or activities carried out by health authorities, may only refer to information provided by a special emergency office under the Prime Minister of Armenia.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

General Regulations on Combating COVID19

The regulations impose a nightly curfew from 9pm to 6am. All non-essential groups are under a shelter-in-place order, and gatherings of 4 or more people are prohibited.

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

"Snap" Lockdowns

Authorities of New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia have imposed multiple "snap" lockdowns ranging from three days to a week to contain the outbreak.

Introduced 8 Jan 2021 Ongoing

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Disaster Lockdown Order

On August 2, the Premier of Victoria announced a State of Disaster in regional Victoria. Movement restrictions were imposed on the region, prohibiting residents from leaving their homes for any reason other than shopping for food and essential items, care and caregiving, daily exercise, work and study that could not be done from home, or personal safety. 

Introduced 2 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order 2020

The order by New South Wales requires individuals to stay in their place of residence absence a reasonable excuse, and prohibits public gatherings of more than two people. Exceptions include gatherings of members of the same household, and gatherings essential for work or education.

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Direction under Section 16 of the Public Health Act 1997

The order declares a "state of emergency" in Tasmania and among other things prohibits all gatherings of three or more people, with limited exceptions, in order to combat the spread of Covid-19.

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Emergency Management (Gatherings) (COVID-19) Direction 2020

The order by South Australia's government prohibits gatherings of more than 10 persons, or fewer than 10 if social distance is not maintained. The prohibition applies to public and private, indoor and outdoor spaces, and includes limited exceptions for essential businesses and health care facilities, among others.

Introduced 2 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Military Enforcement of State of Disaster

The premier announced that military personnel would be deployed to enforce the curfew and that breaches of curfew could be punished with fines of up to 20,000 Australian dollars (US $14,250). 

Introduced 4 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Protesters Arrested and Fined for Violating COVID-19 Measures

In June 2020, police fined Black Lives Matter protest leaders $1,652 each in Melbourne for organizing a public rally focused on the abuse and death of Indigenous detainees that they claimed violated social distancing restrictions. The Supreme Court ruled for a police prohibition on Black Lives Matter protests in Sydney in July 2020 and in the ensuing weeks, police arrested and fined six attendees $1,000 each for not abiding by the ban. In September 2020, police arrested and fined students $1000 each at Sydney University for protesting against university cutbacks and layoffs (despite protester measures to abide by the COVID-19 restrictions in place).

Introduced 6 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

COVID-19 Measures Act

The law enables the Government to prohibit access to public places places insofar as this is necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Order of the Federal Minister for Social Affairs, Health, Nursing and Consumer Protection i

The order, issued under Section 2 of the COVID-19 Measures Act, prohibits people from entering public spaces. Exceptions include activities with the purpose of averting immediate danger to life, limb, or property; caring for or supporting vulnerable people; meeting necessary basic needs of daily life or fulfilling work responsibilities; and walking pets.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Measures Against the Convergence of Large Crowds

The decree, issued under Section 15 of the Epidemics Act of 1950, instructs local health authorities to issue regulations that prohibit all large gatherings of 500 people or more outside or 100 people or more inside.

Introduced 10 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Amendments to the Criminal Code

The amendments increase the penalties for violations of sanitary, hygiene, and quarantine regimes. Under the amended criminal code, violations of the epidemic-related rules that threaten to spread disease may be punished by 3 years’ imprisonment or a fine of 2,500-5,000 Manat (US$1,500-3,000).

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Decision of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 124 of 2020

The decision introduces an SMS notification system to control individuals' movement. In order to leave their place of residence, persons must send an SMS with their identity information and reason for leaving. A person may leave only after receiving a positive response from the e-Government information system. The response will also indicate the amount of time a person is permitted to be outside of their residence.

Introduced 2 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers on Additional Measures Related to Coronavirus

The order restricts inter-district and inter-city traffic except for the movement of special purpose vehicles. The order also restricts access to all boulevards, parks and recreation areas, and suspends the in-person services of all commercial establishments, except supermarkets, grocery stores and pharmacies.

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Declaration of Special Quarantine Regime

The order prohibits the assembly of more than 10 persons in public places. Persons over the age of 65 are also prohibited from leaving their homes.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 24 Mar 2020 Extended through 28 December 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Localized Curfews

Authorities set a 22:00 - 05:00 curfew for Grand Bahama, New Providence, Abaco, and mainland Eleuthera and Exuma. In these areas, gatherings are also banned.

Introduced 12 May 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Emergency Powers (COVID 19) Order No. 1 of 2020

The Prime Minister's order imposes a nightly curfew from 9pm to 5am, and prohibits most public and private gatherings. Violations are punishable by up to $10,000 and 18 months in prison. The order is in place for an initial 11 days.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Gathering and Movement Restrictions to Curb Omicron Variant

On January 10, 2022, the Cabinet Division of the government issued an 11-point directive that prohibit all social, political and religious public gatherings at open spaces "until further notice." To enforce the rules, the government has set up mobile courts across Dhaka.

Introduced 13 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown and Army Deployment

The government imposed a strict lockdown including stay at home orders for citizens and the closure of offices and public transportation. The Army was deployed to enforce compliance with the order.

Introduced 30 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Refugee Camp Lockdown Order

Local administration imposed a lockdown order in five Rohingya refugee camps in southeastern Bangladesh. Movement into or out of the camps was strictly controlled and residents were ordered to stay indoors.

Introduced 21 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Under the pretense of preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the city of Cox's Bazar, the government of Bangladesh has intercepted and detained boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees fleeing an ethnically targeted military crackdown in Myanmar. The refugees have been relocated to an uninhabited island off of Bangladesh's southern coast.

Introduced 7 May 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: practice

Ban on Border Crossing for Citizens of Belarus

Following the adoption of the Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 624, which  temporarily suspends border crossings to Belarus by land to foreigners, Alexander Lukashenko also ordered border guards to deny citizens of Belarus entry to the country. The ban does not apply to citizens of Belarus travelling back from Russia, due to the two countries' border arrangements.

Introduced 5 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 624

The Republic of Belarus temporarily suspended the border crossing for foreign citizens and stateless persons at road, railway and river border crossings. The airports are not affected by this restriction. The restriction to enter the country by land does not apply to foreigners traveling with diplomatic and service passports, foreigners with work permits, citizens of Russian Federation transiting the country and others.

Introduced 1 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decision of the National Public Health Emergency Commission No. 33

The National Public Health Emergency Commission designated "high risk districts". The Decision also introduces nationwide measures, including a ban on gatherings in public places of groups larger than 3 people, prohibition for persons over 63 years of age to leave their homes (unless an exception applies), and a prohibition of organizing activities and events with spectators.

Introduced 1 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 208

The resolution restricts individuals in self-isolation from leaving their home, with the exception of visiting the nearest grocery store or pharmacy. If leaving the home for those purposes, individuals in self-isolation are required to wear a mask and prevent contact with others. Violations of the self-isolation requirements are punishable by law.

Introduced 9 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

The federal government declares a "state of emergency" on account of the coronavirus, and bans gatherings of more than two people.

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Public Health (Prevention of the Spread of Infectious Disease)(COVID-19) Regulations 2021

The COVID-19 public health order includes a provision which makes it illegal to host or attend a meeting of an association or organization.  This appears to be a total ban with no apparent exceptions and a fine of $1,000 following summary conviction.  The provision is broadly written and seems to preclude any gathering at all, even if masked, socially distanced, and outdoors.

Introduced 2 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly

Type: order

Belize Constitution (Emergency Powers) Regulation 2020

The regulation imposes a curfew from 8pm to 5am. Only essential travel is permitted outside of curfew hours, and persons may not loiter, wander, assemble, or otherwise move in any public place and on any public road. Violations are punishable by a fine of $5,000.00 or imprisonment for 2 years.

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Ban on Gatherings

Gatherings of more than 50 people are banned indefinitely. 

Introduced 10 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Temporary Quarantine

The decree imposes a temporary quarantine, until April 12, around most cities affected by the virus. People within these cities will only be allowed to move for essential reasons (health, food supply). People are advised to minimize their movements within the country. Gatherings of 10 or more people are prohibited.

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

COVID-19 Health Cordon

The Government of Benin establishes a health cordon around 15 municipalities in order to isolate them and contain the spread of COVID-19. Travel in and out of the health cordon zone is prohibited except for emergencies. Within the cordon zone, public transportation is suspended and taxis and motorcycle taxis must abide by strict passenger limits. Bars and nightclubs are closed, gatherings of more than 10 people are banned, and people are required to practice social distancing and wear face masks at all times in public. 

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Prohibiting Non-Essential Gatherings

The decree prohibits non-essential gatherings indefinitely, and imposes a mandatory quarantine for 14 days of those arriving into the country.

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown

The Government declared a nationwide lockdown, requiring people to stay at home. Violators face a maximum term of imprisonment of three years and a minimum term of one year. 

Introduced 11 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Supreme Decree No. 4200

The decree extends the nationwide lockdown and stipulates additional measures. The Decree prohibits gatherings, and allows one person per residence at a time to leave to acquire essential items. Persons are allowed to leave their residence only during prescribed days and times, as determined by the last digit of their ID number. The Decree also establishes penalities for persons who incite non-compliance, misinform, or cause uncertainty among the population. Violators will be subject to criminal charges for crimes against public health, and can face one to ten years in prison if convicted.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Expression, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 4196 Declaring a State of Emergency

The decree declares a "national health emergency" and quarantine throughout Bolivia, due to the presence of the coronavirus. The decree imposes a curfew from 5pm to 5am, with limited exceptions for law enforcement, health workers, and other essential service providers. The decree prohibits all gatherings of people, with no exceptions, and closes Bolivia's borders.

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 4192 on Prevention and Containment Measures

Among other things, the decree prohibits gatherings of more than 100 persons and imposes a curfew from 5pm to 5am, to combat the spread of coronavirus.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 01-33-6615/20

The Order limits gatherings (both indoors and outdoors) to maximum 30 people and requires a 2-meter distance between participants. The Order also restricts the movement of people in the entire territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.

Introduced 23 Nov 2020 In force for 14 days. This Order repeals Order No. 01-33-6301/20 from 9 November 2020.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Order of the Federal Headquarters for Civic Protection No. 12-40-6-148-36/1

The order establishes a curfew from 8pm to 5am. Citizens in public spaces are required to abide by protective measures and keep more than 1.5 meters apart from others.

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Order No.12-40-6-148-40/20 of Federal Headquarters for Civic Protection

The order prohibits two or more individuals from moving and standing together in outdoor spaces, and requires 1.5 meters of distance between individuals, on account of Covid-19.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Conclusion of the Emergency Headquarters to Limit and Ban Movement of Persons on the Territory of Republika Srpska No. 05-1/20

The order establishes a curfew from 8pm to 5am in the Republic of Srpska, and places a ban on the movement of people older than 65.

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Order of the Federal Headquarters for Civic Protection No. 12-40-6-148-34/20

The order bans the movement of citizens younger than 18 and older than 65.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

No. 30 of 2020 on Public Health (Declaration of Public Health Emergency)

The order declares a "public health emergency," and among other things suspends gatherings of more than 100 people.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

General Notice No. 128 on Directions for the Prevention of the Spread of COVID-19

Issued under the terms of the Public Health Act, the directions from the Director of Public Health Services restrict movement in and out of the country. The Directions also prohibit gatherings of more than 10 people indefinitely.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

COVID-19 Prevention Measures and Curfew

Nationwide curfew imposed from 8 pm - 4 am; only those possessing essential services permits can move during curfews. All public gatherings are suspended. Religious gatherings are limited to 50 people.

Introduced 16 Aug 2021 Extended through 30 Sept 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Restriction on Movement Extension – G.N. No. 1 of 2021

The President, in accordance with regulation 5 (1) and (4) of the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations, 2020, extended the restriction on movement. The restrictions on movement apply from 20:00 hours to 04:00 hours daily. A person is required to carry a movement permit (essential services) issued under regulation 7 (1) to travel during periods where movement is restricted.

Introduced 4 Jan 2021 Extended to 3/31/2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: regulation

Directions for the Prevention of the Spread of COVID-19 – G.N. No. 301 of 2020

Issued under the Emergency Powers Act and Emergency Powers (Covid-19) Regulations, the Directions restrict travel, including a ban on international travel and non-essential travel between domestic "COVID Zones". The Directions also impose a lockdown and prohibit gatherings or meetings of more than 50 people. A convenor must obtain a special permit for a meeting across COVID zones. There is also a provision that states, "Information from any other source other than the Director of Health Services and the World Health Organization should not be relied on by the public as credible and correct information."

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 29 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Access to Information, Movement

Type: regulation

Restrictions for the Holding of Meetings, Workshops and Conferences – G.N. No. 303 of 2020

The Notice permits the resumption of meetings, workshops and conferences for not more than 50 people. Such events must first be authorized by the Director of Health Services. Participants cannot travel from across "COVID Zones," except for facilitators and convenors with a special permit. For purposes of contact tracing, the host must maintain a register containing the personal details and contact details of all persons accessing the premises. This information shall be open for inspection by the Director of Health Services for the purposes of contact tracing, and by law enforcement in the case of investigation of an offence under the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations (2020). 

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 29 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Privacy, Movement

Type: regulation

Restrictions for Meetings of Societies – G.N. No. 304 of 2020

The Notice permits the resumption of meetings by societies, including (a) faith based organizations, which shall have a maximum of two religious services per week; (b) any club, company, partnership or association registered by the Registrar of Societies; and (c) all central committees of political parties. Such events must first be authorized by the Director of Health Services, and are capped at 50 persons. For purposes of contact tracing, the host must maintain a register containing the personal details and contact details of all persons accessing the premises. This information shall be open for inspection by the Director of Health Services for the purposes of contact tracing, and by law enforcement in the case of investigation of an offence under the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations (2020). 

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 29 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Privacy

Type: regulation

Emergency (COVID-19) (Amendment) No. 2 Regulations

The regulations empower the Chief Justice to suspend any operations of procedures and timelines in the judiciary's rules. The Chief Justice may also issue directions relating to detention, bail, remand and "take any measures" aimed at addressing or preventing the spread of Covid-19. The regulations further suspend the right to strike and lockout.

Introduced 9 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

SI 61 of 2020, Emergency Powers (Covid 19) Regulations

The regulations declare a nationwide lockdown and curfew from 8pm to 8am. Violations are punishable by a fine and up to six months' imprisonment. The regulations prohibit gatherings of more than 2 persons, and close all schools and churches. Persons are prohibited from relaying any information to the public about COVID-19 from a source other than the Director of Health Services and the WHO. Persons are also prohibited from publishing any statement with the intention to deceive any other person about COVID-19. Violators face a fine of up to 100,000 Pula ($8,100), imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

Introduced 2 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Expression, Movement

Type: regulation

Curfew Order

The city of Rio de Janeiro decreed a nightly curfew and the closure of any type of commercial activity on its beaches for a week due to the advance of the pandemic. New restrictions come into effect between March 4 and March 11, according to the Rio Mayor's Office Official Gazette.

"The permanence of people in the streets, areas and public squares of the municipality between 23:00 and 05:00 hours is prohibited," the text indicated. The Mayor's Office also suspended commerce and the provision of services on beaches, including street vendors, beach bars and handicraft markets.

Introduced 4 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 12.485

Araraquara, a city in the interior of the state of Sao Paulo, imposed a rigorous 15-day curfew after 12 cases of local transmission of the so-called COVID-19 Brazilian variant.

The measure was announced on 15 February 2021 by the Araraquara Mayor's Office. A fine of up to 6,000 reais (about 1,110 dollars) for those who violate the  decree was set. The circulation of people, bicycles or vehicles is only allowed  for essential services. Only essential shops are allowed to open, but with restricted hours.

Introduced 15 Feb 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Crackdown on Protests

In Recife, protests against the mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and discontent with the government were violently suppressed by military police using rubber bullets and tear gas. 

Introduced 30 May 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Stay-at-home Order

Brunei Darussalam introduced a directive to stay at home from 8pm to 4am with a fine of BND 500 for each individual violation. Companies that fail to ensure employee compliance will be fined BND 500/employee. The curfew was shortened to 10 pm - 4 am on 19 November 2021 and shortened from 12 am - 4 am on 13 January 2022.

Introduced 4 Oct 2021 Curfew extended on 19 Nov 2021 and 13 Jan 2022.

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Prohibition on Mass Gatherings

In order to prevent spread of the virus, Brunei's Ministry of Health banned "mass gatherings," whether organized or spontaneous, including sporting events, weddings, and get-togethers involving large crowds.

Introduced 13 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Law on Measures and Actions in the State of Emergency

The law among other things prohibits non-essential travel within and outside the country, in order to combat the spread of coronavirus. The law also provides that if individuals violate their quarantine, their mobile phone data may be subject to surveillance. As originally proposed, the law included criminal sanctions for spreading false information about contagious diseases, however this provision was removed before the law's adoption.

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: law

Penal Code Amendments

The law amends Article 255 of Bulgaria's Penal Code to significantly increase the penalty for violating quarantine regulations or other orders related to preventing the spread of contagious disease - from a 300 BGN fine (150 EUR) to three years in prison. If the violation is committed during an epidemic, the amendments increase the penalty from one year to up to five years in prison and a 50,000 BGN fine (25,000 EUR).

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Order â„– RD-01-611 of 22.10.2020 for Introduction of Anti-Epidemic Measures on the Territory of the Republic of Bulgaria

The order introduces various restrictions related to gatherings, events and recreational activities. According to the order, public events should generally be held remotely. For events that cannot be held online, the total number of participants should not exceed 50% of the venue's total capacity and participants shall exercise physical distancing. The same applies to cultural and entertainment events, regardless of whether they are organized indoors or outdoors. Sports trainings must be held without an audience, and competitions are subject to the similar restrictions as other types of events.

Introduced 22 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Order of the Minister of Healthcare

The order prohibits persons under 60 from visiting shops or pharmacies between 8:30am and 10:30am. Visits to parks and playgrounds are prohibited, except for walking dogs. The order also limits travel, and allows the government to check the purposes of individuals' travel at established check points.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Sanitary Emergency

The Burkinabe ministerial board declares a "state of sanitary emergency," per Article 66 of Law No. 23/94 on the Public Health Code, and imposes a quarantine in numerous cities where cases of coronavirus have been confirmed as of March 27. It is unclear how long the quarantine will remain in effect. These new measures have been implemented amid a nationwide overnight curfew, ongoing between 7pm to 5am local time since March 21, until further notice.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

State of Health Alert

The Council of Ministers orders a quarantine of the capital Ouagadougou and its surrounding areas. The order prohibits all gatherings in these areas, and travel in and out of these areas is restricted. These new measures have been implemented amid a nationwide curfew from 7pm to 5am.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

Authorities prohibit all demonstrations and public gatherings until at least April 30.

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Law on Measures to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 and other Deadly Infectious Diseases

The law makes evading self-quarantine a crime punishable by 6 months to 3 years in prison with 2 to 10 million reals (~$490-$2460) fines. Other crimes include non-compliance with COVID-19 administrative measures (including testing protocols, gathering caps that are subject to change, and movement restrictions) and obstruction of COVID-19 measures. 

Introduced 11 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: law

Law on National Management in the State of Emergency

The law provides the government with broad new powers during a state of emergency. These include: banning meetings and gatherings; restricting people from leaving their homes; mobilizing military forces; surveilling telecommunications "by any means"; banning or restricting news media that may harm "national security" or create confusion about the state of emergency; and other measures that are "suitable and necessary" to respond to the emergency. "Obstructing" the state's response to the emergency, or noncompliance with the response in a way that creates "public chaos," is punishable by up to 5 years in jail and a fine of up to 5 million riels ($1,200). Organizations found culpable of these offenses may be fined up to 1 billion riels ($247,000).

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Emergency, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement, Militarization

Type: law

Commune Lockdown and Movement Restrictions

The Siem Reap Provincial Administration ordered four communes and three villages in Siem Reap city under lockdown for one week (Slakram, Svay Dangkum, Kokchak and Chhreav commune and Ta Vien in Sala Kamroeuk commune, and Prey Thom and Sra Nge in Sra Nge commune). Public activities have been suspended and residents are forbidden from leaving their homes. Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited unless otherwise permitted by the relevant authorities. Offenders will face legal action and have their vehicles impounded.

Introduced 13 Sep 2021 Extended to 1 Oct 2021, when it was lifted.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Curfew and Restrictions on Public Gatherings

The Siem Reap Provincial Administration imposed a curfew from 10PM to 4AM and banned public gatherings.

Introduced 13 Jun 2021 Extended through 7 August 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Harsh Enforcement of COVID "Red Zones"

The authorities classified six communes and parts of four others in Phnom Penh as COVID-19 “red zones." Residents of these areas face restrictive lockdown measures, including a ban on leaving their homes except for specific medical reasons. Authorities have denied access to local and international groups looking to provide assistance to those unable to access food or other necessities due to the lockdown. Police have reportedly enforced the red zones using violence, including caning violators. The Ministry of Information issued a statement ordering journalists to halt reporting from "red zone" areas and the government threatened legal action against journalists for violating this order. The gathering cap was increased from 15 to 50 people through at least 28 October 2021.

Introduced 29 Apr 2021 Extended through at least 28 October 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

Phnom Penh Lockdown Orders

The lockdown orders prohibits individuals from leaving their residence if not necessary, suspends operations of non-essential workplaces or businesses, and prohibits gatherings. Lockdown orders for Phnom Penh have been repeatedly extended. 

Introduced 18 Apr 2021 Extended through 7 October 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Government Response Strategy to the Coronavirus Pandemic (Covid-19)

The order among other things indefinitely closes all land, air, and sea borders and suspends entry visas to Cameroon; closes private and public schools; prohibits gatherings of more than 50 people; and provides that private health facilities, hotels, other lodging facilities, vehicles, and specific equipment may be requisitioned as necessary for implementation of the response plan.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Declaration of an Emergency to Protect the Public

The executive order by the government of Ontario declares an emergency under Section 7.0.1(1) the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Among other things, the order prohibits gatherings of 50 or more people.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

State of Emergency and Curfew

The government declares a nationwide "state of emergency" until April 17, on account of the coronavirus. Measures to be taken include instructing all individuals to remain at home with limited exceptions for essential activities and health care.

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

State of Health Emergency

The President announced an initial 21-day State of Health Emergency which grants the government the power to restrict or prohibit the movement of people and vehicles, quarantine infected individuals, ban public gatherings, and close nonessential businesses. Those who violate COVID-19 measures may face up to three months in prison.

Introduced 25 Apr 2020 Extended 5/15/20; 7/17/20; 10/17/20; and 3/11/21 through 9/11/21

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 379/PR/2020

The decree announces a state of emergency in select provinces of Chad. The decree empowers local civil and military authorities to prohibit the movement of people and vehicles; to establish protection zones where people are "regulated"; to temporarily close performance halls, bars and meeting areas; to ban meetings "likely to provoke disturbances of public order"; to order nightly home searches; to collect all weapons; to take all measures to ensure control of the press and publications of all types of radio and television broadcasts; and to make arrests. Per the order, this expansion of local authorities' powers ends with the end of the state of emergency.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Ministerial Border Closure Order

The Ministry of Health confirmed that borders will continue to be closed throughout June 2021. Under the order, only Chilean citizens and legal resident foreigners may enter the country. Nationals and residents in Chile may not travel abroad except in very extraordinary situations, for which they must request a permit from the Carabineros de Chile.

Introduced 7 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Curfew and Movement Restrictions

The government extended a curfew order to 9:00pm, closed the border, and prohibted non-resident foreigners from entering the country.

Introduced 1 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Catastrophe

The decree provides for the "constitutional exception" of a "state of catastrophe" for three months, due to the coronavirus. The decree allows the President to take further measures including imposing restrictions on gatherings in public spaces, establishing quarantines or curfews, and limiting individuals' movement.

The Chilean Chamber of Deputies approved the extension of the State of Constitutional Exception of Catastrophe until 30 June 2021.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Repression of protests during the pandemic

A number of people in Chile have been arrested and detained for violating public health measures that prohibit gatherings of over 50 people, while engaging in peaceful, masked, and socially distanced protests. Police have also used tear gas and water cannons to respond to a number of masked and socialy distanced protests. 

Introduced 29 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Lockdown in Nanjing

Authorities in Nanjing imposed a lockdown on account of COVID-19. Residents living in medium-risk areas are required to stay at home.

Introduced 21 Jul 2021 Expires 8/4/21

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Lockdown in Yunnan Province

Authorities imposed lockdowns in areas of the city of Ruilin and Longchuan County on account of COVID-19. 

Introduced 7 Jul 2021 Expires 7/16/2021 (Ruilin) and 7/22/2021 (Longchuan County)

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Declaration of "Wartime Mode" and Lockdown

Authorities declared a "wartime" mode in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. Authorities ordered lockdown measures, including banning all public gatherings, forbidding residents to leave their housing compounds, and requiring those who needed to leave the city to present a negative COVID-19 test.

Introduced 18 Jul 2020 Lifted on 9/1/20

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Declaration of a "Wartime Emergency Mode" in Beijing District

Beijing officials have placed 29 residential communities under a "wartime emergency mode" after a surge of positive cases in the district. Officials have ordered a lockdown of the district (all neighborhoods of the district will be closed immediately and all residents must stay home).

Introduced 13 Jun 2020 Lifted on 7/3/20

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Lockdowns in Hubei Province

On January 23, the central government imposed travel lockdowns on Wuhan and nearby cities in Hubei province, effectively confining an estimated 56 million people. Wuhan authorities also suspended all vehicle traffic, with limited exceptions, in the city center. Many residents in Wuhan expressed difficulties about access to medical care and other life necessities. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Jan 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: policy

Secret Detention of Opposition Figures under Pretext of Quarantine

According to rights activists, the Chinese government has detained opposition figures upon being released from prison, under the pretext of quarantining them. "Quarantines" in this context involve detention without families' knowledge, and deprivation of individuals' ability to communicate with the outside world while they are held in secret locations. On one occasion, a woman was held in "quarantine" in a windowless room for more than a month, even though she had been tested and quarantined before her release from prison. On another occasion, a human rights defender was detained in the midst of standard day-to-day activities, interrogated, and "quarantined" in a hotel 500 miles away. Local officials have suggested these types of detentions go even beyond emergency powers granted to the Chinese government under the national emergency law. 

Introduced 30 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Expression, Movement

Type: practice

Use of Surveillance Cameras to Enforce Quarantine

Local governments in China have been installing surveillance cameras outside the homes of persons under quarantine in several cities. Some people reported that cameras have even been placed inside their homes.

Introduced 28 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Decree No. 580

The President of Colombia issued an executive decree mandating individual social distancing, authorizing municipalities with high ICU occupancy rates due to COVID-19 to restrict certain activities and areas, and closing land and river borders with Venezuela through September 1, 2021. The decree extends and modifies earlier decrees issued during the COVID-19 pandemic which contained varying border closure rules. 

Introduced 31 May 2021 Extends and modifies Decree No. 206 (26 Feb 2021)

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 1168

This Decree prevents public and private gatherings and announces border closures with Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Venezuela.

Introduced 25 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

No. 457 Instructions Given Under the Health Emergency Generated by the COVID-19 Pandemic

The presidential decree establishes mandatory, preventive isolation measures for 21 days, unless extended. The decree strictly limits individuals' freedom of movement. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Resolution No. 385 Declaring a Health Emergency

The resolution declares a "health emergency" throughout the country until May 30, on account of the coronavirus. Among other things, prohibits large public gatherings, and orders television and radio stations and all other mass media to disseminate information provided by the Health Ministry. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

Prohibiting Public Gatherings

Authorities prohibit all demonstrations and public gatherings for at least one month. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

State of Emergency

The president declares a "state of emergency," and imposes curfews and internal travel restrictions on account of the coronavirus. Authorities imposed a nationwide curfew with immediate effect between 11pm and 5am local time and banned all non-essential travel between Abidjan, where most COVID-19 cases are reported, and the rest of the country. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decision to Prohibit Leaving the Place of One's Residence

The decision prohibits individuals from leaving their place of residence without a special permit, to be issued for very limited cases. The decision is in effect for 30 days. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decision to Restrict Gathering on the Streets and Other Public Places

The decision implements a broad, month-long prohibition on gathering in public places where a large number of people can move, due to the risk of coronavirus transmission. The decision does not define "large number." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decision on Measures to Limit social Gatherings, Work in Commerce, Services and the Holding of Sports and Cultural Events

The measures place a 30-day ban on all public events, prohibit the gathering of more than 5 persons in one place, and order the closure of all non-essential businesses. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Curfew

The government decreed a curfew in Havana and mandatory quarantine for travelers in state centers and hotels. The curfew is in effect between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., and will be maintained "indefinitely". 

Introduced 4 Feb 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Persecution of Human Rights Defenders

The authorities have reportedly used the pandemic as a pretext to intimidate human rights defenders through the imposition of excessive fines, establishment of fences around the homes of human rights defenders, and use of health care facilities to confine and isolate critics of the governnment. 

Introduced 15 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression, Movement

Type: practice

Definition of Measures for Preventing the Spread of COVID-19, Decree No. 2 of 2021

The Decree prohibits mass gatherings and other events, demonstrations, parades, concerts, festivals and similar events in public or private spaces. The Decree also prohibits movement, except in some cases and with the prior permission from the authorities. Permission is to be obtained by sending SMS to a dedicated number. 

Introduced 8 Jan 2021 set to expire 8 May 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 12 on Measures for Prevention of COVID-19 Spread

The decree prohibits individuals' movement between 9pm and 6am, with exception of people who have a document certifying that their movement is required by their employment. Non-work travel is allowed only once per day, and individuals are required either to have a form that indicates a permissible purpose, or to have sent an SMS to request official permission. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Curfew measures and assembly restrictions

The resolution introduces a daytime curfew with limited exceptions for grocery shopping and outdoor exercise, and a nighttime curfew with exceptions only for essential workers and urgent medical needs. The resolution also limits the freedom of assembly to outdoor areas only and gatherings of up to 100 participants total, in groups of no more than 20 persons.

Introduced 30 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Restrictions on Movement of those Living in Social Service Facilities

The order prohibits individuals living in social service facilities (e.g. senior homes and special care facilities) from leaving the premises of those facilities.

Introduced 12 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: order

Government Decision to Prohibit the Free Movement of Persons 

The order prohibits the free movement of persons throughout the Czech Republic, with the exception of necessary journeys and activities.

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

No. 215 on the Adoption of an Emergency Measure

The decree declares a "state of emergency" for one month under Constitutional Act No. 110/1998, on account of the coronavirus. It prohibits non-essential or work-related travel and orders individuals to remain home and limit contact with others to the extent possible. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Ministeral Decree No. 25/2020 on Practical Modalities for the Execution of Measures against the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Ministerial Order introduces a curfew from 21:00 to 05:00, and restricts public gatherings of more than 20 persons. The order states that the new measures will remain in place “until further notice.”

Introduced 17 Dec 2020 Extended until at least 25 March 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

State of Health Emergency

The presidential decree institutes a one-month "state of health emergency," and a 30-day lockdown and curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. local time. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 20/014 Proclaiming a State of Health Emergency to Face the Covid-19 Pandemic

The initial presidential order declares a "state of health emergency" for a period of thirty days. The order bans travel from Kinshasa to provinces, and vice versa. The order also bans gatherings of more than twenty people. Residents are asked to stay home and only to travel as strictly necessary. Religious and sporting services are suspended, and certain public places are closed. The unilateral nature of the order prompted political pushback, and subsequent extensions of the order were subjected to parliamentary approval. 

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Amendment to Penal Code Increasing Sentence for Crimes Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The amendment doubles the sentence for crimes that have "a background" or are connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. The law was first used in March 2021 to impose an increased sentence on a protester.

Introduced 28 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: law

No. 158 on Amendment of the Law on Measures Countering Infectious and Other Communicable Diseases

The law further enables the government to ban gatherings of 3 or more people, with certain exemptions including gatherings at private homes and orderinary gatherings at places of work. The law also explicitly exempts opinion-shaping assemblies, including demonstrations and political meetings. The law expires on March 1, 2021. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: law

No. 133 on Amendment of the Law on Measures Countering Infectious and Other Communicable Diseases

The law enables the government to ban gatherings of 10 or more people, with certain exemptions including gatherings at private homes and ordinary gatherings at places of work. The law also explicitly exempts opinion-shaping assemblies, including demonstrations and political meetings. The law expires on March 1, 2021. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: law

Executive Order on Prohibition of Major Assemblies and Prohibition of Access to and Restrictions on Certain Premises for Coronavirus Disease Management 2019 (COVID-19)

The order, issued under Law No. 133, prohibits gatherings and events of 10 or more people throughout Denmark starting on March 18, with exemptions including "opinion-shaping assemblies." The order is in effect until April 14. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree 135-20 Establishing a Curfew

Under Decree 134-20 declaring a State of Emergency, Decree 135-20 establishes a curfew, prohibiting transit and the movement of people from 8pm to 6am. The Decree charges the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior and Police with execution of the curfew.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restriction of Peaceful Assembly

A group of activists set up a protest camp in front of the National Congress to advocate for the incorporation of measures to decriminalize abortion into the Penal Code. Dominican Police dismantled the camp, and reported in a press release that they did so to enforce compliance with the coronavirus pandemic protocol. The police alleged that the activists set up the camp during curfew hours and without permission from the authorities.

Introduced 20 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Executive Decree No. 116

The President of Ecuador declared a State of Exception to halt the spread of COVID-19 in El Oro province and in the city of Guayaquil. The State of Exception establishes a curfew from Monday to Thursday from 8pm to 6:00am, and on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6pm to 6am and blocks transportation between El Oro and other provinces. In Guayaquil, the decree requires indoor venues to allow for 50% of capacity, outdoor venues to be limited to 75%. In El Oro, there is a blanket cap of 25% for any type of facility.

Introduced 12 Jul 2021 Extended through 27 August 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 1291

The President of Ecuador, Lenín Moreno, declared a state of exception due to public calamity. The Order temporarily suspends the right to exercise the freedom of movement, association, and assembly. The Order includes a lockdown on weekends and a nightly curfew in most of the country. The mobility restrictions will begin on Friday evenings and will end at 5:00 AM on Mondays. From Monday to Thursday there will be a night-time curfew, with exceptions for healthcare, food distribution and strategic sectors. The measures are in force for 28 days from 23 April to 20 May 2021.

Introduced 22 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Executive Decree 1282

The President of Ecuador, Lenín Moreno, declared State of Exception due to public calamity responding to increasing COVID-19 infections in eight provinces. Executive Decree number 1282 declares a State of Exception in the provinces of Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Manabí, Pichincha, and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas for 30 days. This State of Exception includes a curfew from 2 -9 of April 2021, from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. The curfew prohibits circulating on roads and gathering in public spaces. 

Introduced 2 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

No. 1017 Declaring a State of Exception

The decree declares a "state of exception" to respond to the covid-19 pandemic. The decree suspends certain individual rights under the constitution, including the right to association and assembly. The decree also provides for governmental authority to use digital tools to surveil individuals under mandatory isolation or quarantine.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy

Type: order

Amendments to Emergency Law 162/1958

The amendments expand the powers of the president and military prosecution during a declared state of emergency. Under the amended Emergency Law, powers available to the president now include the power to: ban private and public gatherings in addition to protests; shut down schools and universities; suspend operations in the private and public sector; and subject anyone returning from outside the country to quarantine. The amendments also allow the president to give military prosecutors preliminary investigation authority over any crimes. Egypt has been in a continuous state of emergency since April 2017, and has repeatedly extended the state of emergency for three-month periods, most recently in January, April, July, and October 2020.

Introduced 8 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Militarization

Type: law

State of Emergency

The presidential decree declares a "state of emergency" for three months, under Article 154 of Egypt's Constitution. Egypt has been in a near-continuous state of emergency since April 2017, however the most recent declaration cites the "critical security and health situation" as grounds for extension. The declaration reinforces the authority of the armed forces and police to maintain security and save the lives of citizens, and provides that the state may impose restrictions on individuals' movement. The decree also states that violations of emergency orders will be punished with imprisonment.

Introduced 28 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Ban on Public Religious Gatherings

The government bans all gatherings, public iftars, fast-breaking meals, and collective social activities for the holy month of Ramadan.

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Nationwide Curfew and Ban of Public Gatherings

The government's measures impose a curfew from 8pm to 6am, and bans public religious gatherings during Ramadan. Those who do not abide by the measures face fines of up to 4,000 Egyptian pounds ($255) or prison.

Introduced 24 Mar 2020 On 14 September 2020 the Supreme Council for Corona Crisis Management announced relaxation of some of the restrictions on public gatherings, including permission for tourism gatherings, funerals, cultural exhibitions, meetings and conferences, certain sport and recreational activities, and childcare centers, all under certain specified conditions.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 188

Decree No. 188 prohibits mass gatherings in public or private for 30 days. Certain exceptions are provided for cultural activities and gatherings that comply with public health rules to be established by the Ministry of Health. Although Decree No. 188 is framed as a public health measure, reports indicate that it was enacted in response to mass protests against the government.

Introduced 8 Nov 2021 Expired 12/8/21

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree No. 90

Decree No. 90 prohibits mass gatherings in public, including demonstrations, for 90 days to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduced 13 Jul 2021 Expired 9/13/21; Renewed 10/12/21

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree-Law No. 594 on Temporal Restrictions on Constitutional Rights to address COVID-19

The decree-law institutes 15-day restrictions on the right to free movement and peaceful assembly. Only meetings for religious, cultural, economic, or sports purposes will be allowed, and only after obtaining prior authorization by public health authorities. These restrictions were extended by subsequent Decree-Law No. 611.

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Executive Decree No. 12

This decree announces "extraordinary measures of prevention and containment to declare the national territory as an area subject to sanitary control." The order establishes quarantine measures prohibiting movement of any persons outside their homes, with limited exceptions. The order authorizes the police to arrest those in violation and to transport them to "containment centers." The order also authorizes involvement of the military in enforcement of the quarantine. 

Introduced 15 Mar 2020 For most recent updates: https://covid19.gob.sv/category/noticias/decretos-y-comunicados/

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Decree No. 593 Declaring a State of Emergency

Declares a one-month "state of emergency" due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The measures include allowing for restrictions on individuals' travel and movement within the country, as well as bans on public gatherings. The decree also suspends all administrative and judicial functions deemed non-essential, such as operations for access to public information. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

Police and Military Abuses in Enforcement of Movement restrictions

Salvadoran police and military have arbitrarily arrested, detained, and beaten hundreds of people for violating COVID-19 lockdown measures, including individuals working in essential services outside their homes. According to complaints to the country's Ombudsperson, dozens of detainees had to sleep in police station parking lots, were denied food and water, and were kept in unsanitary conditions. As of April 13, more than 4,000 detainees were held in overcrowded containment centers, many for violations of quarantine and lockdown orders. 

Introduced 15 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Decree No. 42/2020 Declaring a State of Health Alert

The President declared a State of Health Alert, which temporarily suspends all types of demonstrations or gatherings of more than 10 people. Travel abroad is suspended for the duration of the Health Alert, except in cases of force majeure duly verified. All international flights of airlines are temporarily suspended. Airline officials, in collaboration with the emergency services, are required to provide the Ministry of Health and Social Protection with the list of passengers who have entered Equatorial Guinea since 1 February 2020. All travellers from affected countries must remain in quarantine for a period of 14 days and can only leave the premises with the permission of the competent health personnel.

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ministry of Health Public Guidelines No.3

Among other limitations, the order prohibits gatherings of ten or more people for any purpose, indefinitely. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Guidelines from the High Level Task Force on COVID-19

The guidelines among other things require all citizens to stay at home, except those engaged in essential services, for 21 days. Members of a household, not exceeding two at a time, are allowed out to buy essential food items and emergency medical treatment. Rigorous implementation of the measures will be secured by the police and security authorities as well as by neighborhood committees, and punitive legal measures will be taken on any individual in violation. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: regulation

State of Emergency

The King proclaims a "national emergency" on March 17 and a ban on all public and private gatherings of over 50 people. The Ministry of Home Affairs will also create a "control management system" for refugees and asylum seekers. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

The Coronavirus (COVID 19) Regulations, Legal Notice No. 72 of 2020

The Prime Minister, on behalf of the King, imposes additional measures to contain the coronavirus, including a prohibition on gatherings of more than 20 people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

State of Emergency

The Regional Council in Tigray declares a State of Emergency on account of the coronavirus. The order prohibits travel within the state, and bans large gatherings.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

The Prime Minister issues a ban on all public gatherings on account of the coronavirus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Regulation 466 to Implement the State of Emergency Proclamation No. 3/2020

The regulation prohibits meetings for religious, government, social, or political purposes in places of worship, public institutions, hotels, meeting halls or any other place. The regulation also prohibits regional or federal officials from giving statements to members of the press about COVID-19, without first obtaining permission from the federal committee or from sub-committees at regional level; exceptions are made for professional commentary on COVID-19 laws, professional medical explanations, or daily press briefings by the Ministry of Health. The regulation also prohibits disseminating information about COVID-19 and related issues that would cause "terror and undue distress among the public." The regulation requires public communication professionals and media outlets to ensure that information, analysis, or programs on COVID-19 are "without exaggeration, appropriate and not prone to cause panic and terror among the public." 

Introduced 20 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: regulation

Regulation No. 3 of 2020 on the Implementation of the State of Emergency Declaration

The Attorney General issued regulations to further define and implement the state of emergency. The regulations prohibit gatherings of more than four people. Under the regulations, spreading information that can cause public confusion or alarm is prohibited. The regulations also require all media professionals to report Covid-related news in a way that is neither exaggerated nor understated, and is not likely to create confusion or alarm. The regulations create a legal duty to report anyone suspected of contracting the virus to the police or Ministry of Health. Violations of these provisions are subject to penalty of up to three years in prison a fine of up to 200,000 Ethiopian Birr ($6,000).

Introduced 8 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information

Type: regulation

Lockdown in Nadi and Lautoka

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama has announced that lockdown measures will be implemented in Nadi and Lautoka from April 19, as part of efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. A 24-hour curfew for the area was announced. Limited movement within the area is permitted. Businesses that do not manage these risks with COVID-safe plans will be shut down.

Introduced 19 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Declaration of State of Natural Disaster

On April 16, PM Bainimarama declared a State of Natural Disaster after Fiji's 17th identified case of COVID-19. The declaration extends the quarantine period from 14 to 28 days, and imposes additional lockdowns on new areas. The order prohibits public gatherings and various recreational activities. The PM warned that any person who violates health protection measures would be arrested and charged. The end of the State of Natural Disaster was declared on May 15, 2020. 

Introduced 16 Apr 2020 15 of May 2020 end of State of Natural Disaster

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Curfew

The order establishes a nationwide curfew beginning March 30, from 10pm to 5am, in order to contain the coronavirus pandemic. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 28 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

The Prime Minister states that gatherings of 20 or more individuals are prohibited nationwide, on account of the coronavirus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Arrests in Enforcement of Quarantine and Deployment of Military

Hundreds of people have been arrested and charged for breaching laws and regulations on self-isolation, quarantine and movement restrictions. Fiji has also deployed military officers in order to support the government's response to the pandemic. Civil society activists have raised concerns regarding the pattern of widespread arrests in enforcement of lockdown measures and the lack of transparency around potential instances of the use of excessive force. 

Introduced 21 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Emergency Law No. 2020-290 to Address the Covid-19 Epidemic

The law establishes a "state of health emergency", under Article 38 of the Constitution, in order to address the Covid-19 epidemic. The state of health emergency allows the Prime Minister to issue decrees restricting individuals' freedom of movement and assembly, and to take "any other regulatory measure" necessary to address the health crisis. A new state of health emergency, Decree no. 2020-1257, was declared on 14 October 2020. 

Introduced 22 Mar 2020 Extended through 1 June 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: law

Order N-R02-2021-211 on Measures to Address the Intensification of COVID-19

The territorial government of Martinique enacted an order banning gatherings of more than six people and instituting strict movement controls. 

Introduced 9 Aug 2021 Extended through 9/19/2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Lockdown Measures

Residents are permitted to leave their homes only for essential purposes, and must be in possesion of an exemption certificate. Updates to COVID-19 restricitons may be found here.

Introduced 30 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Law No. 001/2020 Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of Law No. 11/90 on the State of Emergency

As approved by the National Assembly and Senate, the law defines expanded powers afforded to the Minister of the Interior during a State of Emergency. The law authorizes the Minister of the Interior to impose an array of movement restrictions and containment measures.  

Introduced 25 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: law

Decree Number 00100/PR/PM, Declaring a State of Emergency in the Gabonese Republic

The President of the Republic of Gabon declared a "state of emergency" after consultation with legislative bodies. The state of emergency authorizes the government to take any restrictive measures required to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the declaration of the state of emergency, various prohibitions on movement were imposed throughout the country, including a full lockdown in Libreville. Businesses, religious institutions, and schools were closed, and gatherings over 10 people were banned. Refusal to comply with lockdown restrictions was made a criminal offense. 

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

The government prohibits gatherings of more than 30 people on account of the coronavirus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

National Curfew

The Gambian government introduced a nationwide curfew due to a rise in COVID-19 cases. The curfew will be in effect from 22:00 to 05:00 (local time). A ban on social gatherings is also in effect and markets are required to close by 14:00. 

Introduced 5 Aug 2020 Measures relaxed on 9/17/2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

Gambian authorities banned public gatherings and closed nonessential public places. Additionally, all flight passengers arriving in the Gambia are subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in a government designated facility. These measures will be in effect until at least November 2, 2020.

Introduced 4 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

No. 1 on the Declaration of Emergency

The decree declares a one-month "state of emergency" throughout Georgia to counter the global coronavirus pandemic. Among other things, the decree allows Georgian authorities to restrict any kind of assembly of persons; restrict movement and travel; and establish rules of isolation and quarantine for which individuals and legal entities shall be held liable. Per the decree, failure to comply with the state of emergency will result in a fine; repeat offences will result in imprisonment for up to three years. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Protesters fined under Movement Restrictions

Law enforcement authorities have fined activists and protesters for violating COVID-19 curfew/movement measures. Sanctioning protesters for violating the rules of curfew is unlawful interference into the right to peaceful assembly. The Law on Public Health of Georgia, which authorizes government to enact measures for fighting coronavirus, does not allow restriction of freedom of peaceful assembly.

Introduced 11 Feb 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Decision by the Chancellor and the Heads of the Federal States of April 15

The decision extends the joint resolutions of March 12 and 22, which ban gatherings and restrict individuals from spending time in public spaces. These provisions will remain in effect until May 3, 2020. In addition, the decision prohibits large events through at least August 31, 2020. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 15 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decision by the Chancellor and the Heads of the Federal States of March 22

The decision prohibits individuals from spending time in public spaces with more than one other person from outside that individual's household, and also prohibits celebrations involving groups of people gathering in in public places, apartments, and private facilities. The measures are in place for at least two weeks. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decision by the Chancellor and the Heads of the Federal States of March 12

The decision prohibits events with more than 1,000 participants, to combat the spread of the coronavirus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Restrictions on Gatherings

President Nana Akufo-Addo announced that conferences, weddings, burials, non-contact sport, and political activities will be limited to a maximum of 100 participants. Festivals, sporting events, nightclubs, cinemas, and political rallies will remain banned, and the closure of Ghana's borders has been extended indefinitely.

Introduced 5 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Additional Measures Taken Under the Imposition of Restrictions Act of 2020

Per presidential order, all individuals in the two major metropolitan regions are required to stay at home, and will only be permitted to leave their homes for essential items such as food, medicine, and water, or to visit the bank and public toilets. The order is in place for at least two weeks. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Measures Taken to Combat the Coronavirus Pandemic

The president orders a 30-day ban on all public gatherings, and directs the Attorney General to submit to Parliament emergency legislation under Article 21 of the Constitution. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Police Brutality in Enforcing Lockdown

During the early stages of lockdown in Ghana, police reportedly used excessive force in enforcing quarantine measures. In one video, a police officer is seen kicking a man and hitting him with a cane, while he struggles to get away. In another incident, police officers reportedly whipped two people with vehicle fan belts and horsewhips, while denying a nearby journalist access to his camera to record the incident. By April 1, twenty-one complaints had been lodged against police for conduct during lockdown. The police have claimed that the videos are outdated or doctored, and urged the public to ignore them. 

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Access to Information, Movement

Type: practice

No. D1a Imposing Temporary Measures to Restrict the Movement of Citizens

The governmental decision prohibits individuals from leaving their homes for non-essential purposes, with limited exceptions, to combat the spread of coronavirus. Individuals who leave their homes must either complete a special form on the government website, send a text to a government hotline, or carry a signed personal declaration with their justification for doing so. Violators are subject to fines of up to 150 euros. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Law No. 1 of 2020 on Changes to the Parliamentary Regulation Regarding Civilian Measures Against Infectious Diseases

The law enables the government to ban gatherings and events (whether indoor or outdoor, public or private) of 10 or more people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: law

Home Rule's Order No. 6 of 2020 on Temporary Restrictions and Prohibition of Assemblies in Nuuk, Sermersooq Municipality

The order, issued under Law No. 1 of 2020, prohibits gatherings and events of 10 or more people in the wider capital area (Nuuk) for 10 days starting on April 3, with exemptions including gatherings of family members in private residences and assemblies with a "political or opinion-shaping purpose." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 3 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Emergency Powers (COVID 19) Regulations No. 3

The regulations impose a two-week curfew, confining all persons to their homes except for essential purposes during limited hours. All individuals in isolation must download a mobile surveillance application. Persons shall report their own or any observed flu-like symptoms affecting others to local police. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 6 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: regulation

Decree No. 5-2021

Decree No. 5 establishes restrictions on public gatherings, including enabling the government to dissolve gatherings or demonstrations that are not authorized or do not comply with public health measures. The armed forces are authorized to impose movement restrictions on towns and to require mandatory registration in case of increased public health risk.

Introduced 13 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decrees No. 5 and 6 on the Declaration of Public Calamity

Decree No. 5 declares a "state of public calamity" under Article 183 of Guatemala's Constitution, on account of the coronavirus. Under the decree, constitutional freedoms including freedom of movement and the right to peaceful assembly are suspended. The decree prohibits events of any size, as well any social, cultural, and sports activities. Decree No. 6 amends the restrictions to prohibit movement between 4:00pm until 4:00am for one week. The order calls upon the Guatemalan Army to support enforcement of the lockdown. 

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

State of Emergency

The president announces a 30-day nationwide "state of emergency" due to the spread of the coronavirus. A nationwide curfew will be in place from 9pm to 5am beginning March 30, and gatherings of over 20 people are prohibited for 14 days (renewable).

Introduced 27 Mar 2020 Extended on 10/17/2020 and 11/14/2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

State of Alert

Authorities downgraded the country's COVID-19 response from a State of Calamity to a State of Alert, through at least March 10, 2021. Demonstrations, meetings, and conferences can resume outdoors and at 50 percent capacity indoors, and may not exceed 100 people.

Introduced 16 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

State of Calamity

Authorities announced that the country's COVID-19 response had been downgraded from a State of Emergency to a State of Calamity. The State of Calamity prohibits processions, parades, demonstrations and other public events of more than 25 people.

Introduced 9 Sep 2020 Expired 12/10/20

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Lockdown Measures

The Guyanese government implemented a curfew between 8pm and 5am and various other restrictions, including a prohibition on religious gatherings and closure of restaurants and other public gathering spaces. One order was issued on March 27, another on March 29, and another on April 2. 

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Health State of Emergency

Authorities imposed a COVID-19-related health state of emergency. Under the restrictions, a nightly curfew is in effect from 22:00-05:00. Gatherings of more than 10 people are banned.

Introduced 25 May 2021 Extended through 29 June 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

The government declares a state of emergency over the coronavirus outbreak, closing Haiti's borders and imposing a nationwide curfew. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Absolute Curfew for the Entire National Territory

On March 20, 2020, an absolute curfew was imposed throughout the country. Information about the extension of the curfew and nationwide COVID-19 data is avialable here. 

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

PCM 021-2020 on Emergency Measures

The emergency decree suspends numerous constitutional guarantees, including freedom of expression, association, assembly, and movement, and provides for emergency measures to address the spread of the coronavirus. These include a prohibition on public or private gatherings of any size, and limitations on individuals' movement. The decree provides that any individual who violates the restrictions on movement shall be arrested. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation

The regulation prohibits gatherings of four or more people in order to combat the Covid-19 epidemic. The prohibition, which provides limited exemptions including for funerals and gatherings of government employees, is in place for 14 days. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Government Access to COVID-19 Tracing App Data

The Hong Kong government now requires that some premises, including restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and other businesses, display a LeaveHomeSafe app QR code, making it mandatory for customers to scan the QR code or register their names, contact number and the date and time of the visit before being allowed to enter the premises. The government made LeaveHomeSafe mandatory for anyone entering government buildings, courtrooms, and public facilities such as pools and public libraries in November 2021. On November 1, 2021, five people were arrested for allegedly using a fake version of the app as they entered a government office. The app's personal information collection statement indicates that the app will share personal data related to confirmed COVID cases with the Health Department, where it could be retained for at least seven years, while other data could be shared or retained by other authorized departments and organizations "where necessary."

Introduced 1 Nov 2021

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Arbitrary Enforcement of the Restriction on Public Gatherings

Hong Kong police have aggressively enforced COVID-19-related restrictions on public gatherings against pro-democracy protesters. Activists and pro-democracy lawmakers allege that the police are selectively exercising their powers to suppress protests rather than to promote social distancing (other groups are largely allowed to gather with impunity). 

In 2021, Hong Kong’s annual June 4 Tiananmen vigil was banned on COVID-19 grounds for the second year. Hong Kong police arrested Chow Hang Tung, the organizer of the vigil.

Introduced 11 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Law on Transitional Rules and Health Preparedness related to the Cessation of the State of Danger

The law introduces measures related to the revocation of the "state of danger" in Hungary. However, the law expands the powers of the government during another exceptional state, by authorizing the government to issue wide-ranging decrees without parliamentary approval during a “state of medical crisis.” During such a state, the law authorizes the government to suspend existing laws and restrict fundamental rights such as freedom of movement and assembly. The government may declare a “state of medical crisis” unilaterally, based on the recommendation of a government-appointed medical officer; the “state of medical crisis” can last up to six months and may be renewed by government decree. According to critics, the law gives the government expansive leeway to rule with minimal judicial and parliamentary scrutiny for an indefinite period.

Introduced 17 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: law

Government Decree No. 484/2020. (XI. 10.) on the Second Phase of Protective Measures to be Applied in the Event of a State of Danger

The Decree introduces a blanket ban on assemblies in public spaces, establishes a curfew between 8pm and 5am, and imposes heavy fines for violations up to 1,400 EUR (500,000 HUF) for participants of banned protests. The Decrees also allows the military to take part in patrols and monitor compliance with the emergency measures. 

Introduced 10 Nov 2020 In effect through 11 December 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Expanding a Ban on Assemblies in Iceland

The government's order, issued under the Act on Health Security and Communicable Diseases No. 19/1997, prohibits gatherings of 20 or more people throughout Iceland (including both public and private spaces) starting on March 23. A previous 100-person limit had been in place since 16 March. The ban will remain in force until May 4, 2020 and may be extended. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Maharashtra Curfew Imposed Amid Omicron Variant Rise

The state government imposed a night curfew from 11 pm to 5 am and said no movement will be allowed within this period except for essential purposes. The government also barred the movement of people in groups of five or more.

Introduced 20 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Ban on Political Rallies During Elections Amid Rising Omicron Cases

The Election Commission imposed a ban on political rallies and roadshows ahead of elections in five states - imposed amid an Omicran variant spike. The ban has been extended past its original expiration date of January 15 to January 22, 2022. Indoor political meetings will now be allowed, but subject to a cap of 300 people, 50 per cent of the hall's capacity, or the limit set by the state's disaster management authority. Large upcoming elections for five assemblies in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur will be held in seven phases from February 10 and results will be declared on March 10.

Introduced 8 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: order

Restrictions on Public Gatherings Ahead of Religious Festivals

The Uttar Pradesh government issued strict guidelines prohibiting gatherings of more than 100 people in advance of major religious festivals. 

Introduced 24 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Stringent Restrictions on Movement in Kerala

The government of Kerala issued an order imposing "special intensified stringent lockdown restrictions" in wards with a weekly infection population ratio above 10. The government of Kerala defined such restrictions in an earlier order from 28 August 2021 as being a restriction on movement from 10 pm - 6 am. There is a limited list of exceptions without obtaining permission from nearest police center. Such restrictions are imposed by individual state authorities, not the central government. 

Introduced 18 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Local Administrations Impose Lockdown Measures in Response to COVID-19 Variants

During a wave of COVID-19 in May 2021, different states in India began imposing lockdowns and restrictions. Local authorities have powers under The Disaster Management Act of 2005 and the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897, which were invoked during the pandemic. Unlike the April 2020 lockdown imposed by the Central Government, local administrations have imposed these new restrictions in response to emerging COVID-19 variants. Measures include curfews and restrictions on gatherings. A total lockdown was imposed in May 2021 by state authorites when cases increased for a period of seven to fourteen days and was extended through June. The restrictions continued in districts where the COVID-19 positivity rate was high. While most states announced complete lockdowns, some states like Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat opted for partial lockdown restrictions. The Punjab state government imposed a 10 pm - 5 am curfew and shut down all schools from 4 - 15 January 2022 in response to rising Omicron variant cases. The government of Karnataka extended their ban on all protests and rallies through January 2022.

Introduced 15 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 40-3/2020-DM-I(A)

Order No. 40-3/2020-DM-I(A) empowers states and union territories to impose local restrictions, such as night curfews, without prior consultation with the Central Government. The order also mandates state and union territory governments to conduct "intensive house-to-house surveillance by surveillance teams formed for the purpose" within COVID-19 containment zones.

Introduced 25 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Curfew & Restrictions on Movement and Public Gatherings

The Kashmir administration imposed a nighttime curfew and restrictions on movement and public gatherings (not more than 3 persons) in Districts of Kashmir Valley, citing COVID-19. The restrictions are in place for two days, ahead of the first anniversary of the revocation of the region's special status.

Introduced 3 Aug 2020 In effect through 8/5/20

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Lockdown Measures

The Kashmir administration imposed a complete lockdown in nine districts of the region, except for Bandipora district. Only agriculture, horticulture, construction activities are permitted. The movement of goods carriers, LPG and oil tankers is also permitted. 

Introduced 22 Jul 2020 Until 7/27/20

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Order No. 40-3/2020-D on Measures to be Taken by States and Union Territories to Contain Covid-19

The order among other things provides for a 21-day ban on all social, political, sports, entertainment, academic, cultural, and religious gatherings. Violations of these and other provisions in the order are subject to penalty under Section 51-60 of the Disaster Management Act, and Section 188 of the Penal Code. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

The Assam COVID-19 Containment Regulations, 2020

This set of regulations include "geographic quarantine, social distancing measures, enhanced active surveillance, testing all suspected cases, isolation of cases, home quarantine of contacts, [and] social mobilization to follow preventive public health measures." The regulations indicate that house to house surveys are to be used for surveillance purposes. Those surveys involved daily house visits by supervisory officers. Individuals believed to be infected were required to isolate at home until examination by a Rapid Response Team. Surveillance teams reported their activities daily to a central authority. All non-essential services were shut down. Containment zones were established and restrictions were imposed on movement into and out of containment zones. The regulations also indicated that "rumors and myths are to be strictly controlled by the administration." 

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement

Type: regulation

Ministry of Home Affairs COVID-19 Guidelines

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued Guidelines for States and United Territories on COVID-19 containment measures. The Guidelines prohibit mass gatherings in areas designated as "containment zones" or in districts reporting more than five percent COVID-19 postivity rates.

Introduced 28 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: policy

Denials of Protest and Demonstration Permits

Indian authorities have denied permits for protests or demonstrations due to COVID-19. For example, Delhi Police denied permission for a rally at the Jantar Mantar protest site in November 2020, citing COVID-19 and other restrictions. In December 2020, citing COVID-19 protocols, Uttar Pradesh authorities denied permission for a demonstration by the Samajwadi Party and detained various party leaders. Authorities also barricaded the road, which is just 200 metres away from the home of the party's president and close to the party's main office.

Introduced 11 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Arrest of Protesters and Activists

Over a matter of weeks, nearly a dozen prominent activists and potentially dozens of other demonstrators were detained while coronavirus restrictions blocked prisoners' ability to file bail applications and to meet with attorneys. Although the arrests mirrored practices that preceded the virus, the fact that the arrests were conducted during lockdown meant that activists were unable to quickly file responses to charges that human rights groups assert were brought on limited evidence. The arrests have had the effect of controlling dissenters' ability to protest social and political issues.

Introduced 19 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Dispersal of Sit-in and Destruction of Protest Site

Citing a ban on public gatherings because of the Covid-19 pandemic, police in Delhi broke up a months-long sit-in protest against India's controversial new citizenship law. Police bulldozers destroyed tents and billboards at the protest site. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Ban on Eid Day Tradition of Mudik, Circular Number 13 of 2021

The COVID-19 National Task Force issued Circular Number 13 of 2021, banning the Eid Day Tradition of Mudik (exodus). From May 6 - 17, 2021 travel is restricted. Violations against this circular will be subject to fines, social sanctions, confinement and/or criminal charges in accordance with the law.

Introduced 6 May 2021 Expires 17 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Number 9 of 2020

This order empowers sub-national leaders of regions impacted by COVID-19 to impose mandatory school and work vacations, restrictions on religious activities, restrictions on activities in public places or facilities, restrictions on social and cultural activities, and restrictions on public transportation. This order also activates the military for combatting COVID-19 domestically.

Introduced 3 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: regulation

Government Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia, Number 21 of 2020

Under certain circumstances, local authorities are empowered to impose "large scale social restrictions," which entail forced academic and work holidays, restrictions on religious activities, and "general" restrictions on other "activities".

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Use of Pandemic Restrictions to Disperse Protests

Police used pandemic  on gatherings and demonstrations to disperse a wide range of protests, including demonstrations regarding Papua's Special Autonomy, Omnibus Law, and workers' rights.

Introduced 31 Dec 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

National Lockdown

The Supreme Committee for National Health and Safety announced a curfew from 7pm until 6am to last for one month, in addition to a full ban on movement on Fridays and Saturdays. Public spaces were closed, with exceptions for shops and factories during daylight hours. Updates on COVID-19 restrictions are available here. 

Introduced 20 Apr 2020 Extended

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Kurdistan Movement Restrictions

The Kurdistan Regional Government announced stay-at-home orders with exemptions for international organizations and diplomatic missions, but not for local civil society organizations. 

Introduced 10 Apr 2020 Extended June 1

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Travel Restrictions and Restrictions on Public Life

Beginning in March, the Kurdistan Regional Government prohibited religious activites, rituals and activities, including Friday sermons. Restrictions also limit movements within Kurdistan and at border posts.

Introduced 4 Mar 2020 Extended 15 June 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 55 of 2020

The order by Iraq's Ministry of Health imposes a 14-day ban on all public gatherings, to combat the spread of coronavirus.

Introduced 26 Feb 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Arrest of peaceful protesters and journalists

Kurdistan Regional Government authorities arrested dozens of protesters and at least eight journalists in mid-May under the pretext of enforcing COVID-19 prevention measures. 

Introduced 19 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: practice

Health (Preservation and Protection and other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest) Act 2020

The law authorizes the government to take certain measures in response to the coronavirus, including banning mass gatherings; allowing health officials to detain individuals suspected of carrying COVID19 who are unlikely or unwilling to self-isolate; and allowing the government to restrict movement of people to certain areas.

Introduced 21 Mar 2020 Extended through 9 November 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: law

Special Powers for Dealing With the Novel Coronavirus Bill (Temporary Order) Amendment No. 2), 2020

This law prohibits participation in protests and demonstrations more than two kilometers from one's place of residence. The text of the law claims that this restriction is a measure to control the spread of coronavirus. News reports have suggested this is a politically motivated restriction intended to repress dissent arising from the government's handling of the pandemic. 

Introduced 30 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 33 of 16 May 2020

The decree restricts individuals' freedom of movement to within the same region until May 18, and between different regions until June 3. The assembly of people in spaces open to the public is prohibited. Public events and shows, including cultural, recreational, sporting, and religious events, may only take place when deemed possible by the competent national or local authorities. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree of 26 April 2020

The decree stipulates that persons may only make journeys proven to be necessary for work, health, or basic needs. Persons may not travel beyond the region in which they are currently located, except for reasons relating to work, health, or emergency. The decree also prohibits any form of gathering in public or private places. Organized events, activities, or shows, in public or private, are also suspended, including cultural, recreational, sporting, religious events and fairs. The opening of places of worship is conditional on the adoption of distancing measures.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 26 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 9 of 2020 Further Urgent Measures to Contain and Manage the Epidemiological Emergency from COVID-19

The decree imposes strict restrictions on individuals' travel and movement nationwide, prohibiting all public and private meetings or other gatherings, and instituting surveillance of individuals who have had contact with confirmed coronavirus cases. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 9 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 8 Urgent Measures to Contain and Manage the Epidemiological Emergency from Covid-19

The decree empowers the President of the Council of Ministers to take measures to contain the spread of Covid-19 in certain areas of Italy designated as "red zones," including by limiting individuals' travel and movement; prohibiting all public and private meetings or other gatherings; and instituting surveillance of individuals who have had contact with confirmed coronavirus cases. Sanctions for noncompliance include detention for up to 3 months and fines of up to 200 Euros. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 8 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Limits on Public Gatherings and Travel

The Prime Minister extended and modified restrictions on travelers from certain South American countries and India, and prohibited public gatherings of more than 10 people.

Introduced 2 May 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

No. 8 Disaster Risk Management (Enforcement Measures)

All individuals arriving on the island are tested for coronavirus, and must at a minimum self-quarantine for 14 days or until released from quarantine after testing negative. Health officials may order individuals they deem to be high risk--even if they test negative--to quarantine at a residence, hotel, or government designated facility. All persons in quarantine must wear an electronic monitoring device. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 15 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Quarantine Measures

Initially, restrictions were imposed on movement of people in and out of the seven-and-eight Miles area of Bull Bay. The Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Jamacia Defense Force were both deployed in enforcement of the quarantine. Subsequently, the government issued an order on 17 March 2020 that all non-essential work in both the public and private sectors was to be done from home. Markets were restricted to operating between 6am and 2pm. This order also restricted gathering size to 20 persons and closed bars, night clubs, and other recreational facilities. 

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Prohibition on Public Gatherings

After the second confirmed case of COVID-19 in Jamaica, the Prime Minister announced a 14-day prohibition on issuance of permits for public gatherings. 

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Defence Order No. 16 of 2020

The order prohibits wedding parties, social gatherings, and any other gatherings of more than twenty people. Wakes are prohibited, though outdoor burials are permitted. Electronic bracelets are required for real-time location tracking of quarantined persons. 

Introduced 19 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy

Type: order

Order No. 2 Financial Penalties and Imprisonment for Violators of the Curfew

The order, issued by the Prime Minister under the Defense Act of 1992, provides that violators of the curfew may be punished by a fine of up to 500 Jordanian Dinars on the first offense, and one year in prison for a repeat offense.

قرار رقم 2 بشأن العقوبات المالية والحبس لمخالفي حظر التجول

 ÙŠÙ†Øµ القرار الذي تم إصداره من قبل رئيس الوزراء بموجب قانون الدفاع لسنة 1992 على أنه يجوز معاقبة مخالفي حظر التجول بغرامة تصل إلى 500 دينار أردني اذا كانت المخالفة لأول مرة، والسجن لمدة سنة واحدة في حال تكرار المخالفة. 

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Order No. 1 Prohibiting Movement of People Within the Country

The order, issued by the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense under the Defense Act of 1992, imposes a ban on internal travel or movement within Jordan until further notice. Specific times will be designated for individuals to fulfill essential activities.

قرار رقم 1 بشأن حظر تنقل الأشخاص داخل البلاد

 ÙŠÙØ±Ø¶ الأمر الذي تم إصداره من قبل رئيس الوزراء ووزير الدفاع بموجب قانون الدفاع لسنة 1992 حظراً على التجول أو التنقل الداخلي في الأردن حتى إشعار آخر. وسيتم تحديد أوقات معينة للأفراد لتنفيذ الأنشطة الأساسية.

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

The decree declares a "state of emergency" under Art. 124 of Jordan's Constitution, on account of the coronavirus pandemic, and activates emergency provisions of Defense Law 13 of 1992. According to the decree and the Defense Law, the Prime Minister is charged with enacting measures to respond to the emergency. He has authority to suspend certain individual rights, including freedom of movement and expression.

إرادة ملكية بتفعيل العمل بقانون الدفاع بسبب حالة الطوارئ الصحية

 Ù‚رار ينص على إعلان العمل بقانون الدفاع بموجب المادة 124 من الدستور الأردني بسبب جائحة فيروس كورونا المستجد، وينطوي على تفعيل أحكام الطوارئ الواردة في قانون الدفاع رقم 13 لسنة 1992. بموجب القرار وقانون الدفاع، فإن رئيس الوزراء مكلف بسن تدابير للاستجابة لحالة الطوارئ، ويتمتع بسلطة تعليق بعض الحقوق والحريات الفردية مثل حرية التنقل والتعبير. 

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Expression, Movement

Type: order

Decision of the State Commission on Ensuring the State of Emergency under President of Kazakhstan

The State Commission approved the decision to strengthen the quarantine regime in the cities of of Nur-Sultan and Almaty. Citizens are restricted from leaving home, with the exception of leaving for food, medicine and employment. The order closes crowded places, including parks, squares, pedestrian streets, promenade, and playgrounds. Restriction of public transport will be phased. Meetings on the streets and in other public places by groups of more than three people (with the exception of family members) are prohibited. The order also bans the movement of minors unaccompanied by adults. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 28 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 285 Declaring a State of Emergency

The decree declares a "state of emergency" for thirty days, on account of the coronavirus pandemic. Among other things, the decree suspends public events, closes the border, and introduces quarantine measures with the participation of relevant military departments.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Decision of the State Commission on Ensuring the State of Emergency

With this decision, the State Comission for ensuring the State of Emergency under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan decided to impose strict quarantine measures in the cities of Nur-Sultan and Almaty, beginning March 19.

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

SmartAstana Tracking App

The Kazakhstani Ministry of Health requires the approximately 8,000 Kazakhstani citizens currently under quarantine to use the SmartAstana tracking app, which allows officials to guarantee that these individuals remain in isolation. The app collects data on the user's location and movements, and it informs the Ministry of Health if the quarantined person leaves a 30-meter perimeter around their home or leaves their home without their phone. In either case, the app operator contacts the user by video call and finds out the reasons for the person's departure from the quarantine zone. Analysts note that the app is but one of recent efforts by the government to employ facial recognition, bio-metric identification, AI, and video surveillance technologies on the public. 

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Public (State Curfew) Order, 2020

The order imposes a daily curfew and restrictions on individuals' movement, on account of the coronavirus. Public gatherings are prohibited during curfew period. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Public Order No. 2 of 2021 on the Coronavirus Pandemic

On the advice of the National Security Council, the Council of Governors, and recommendations of the National Emergency Response Committee on COVID-19, the President declared the Counties of Nairobi, Kajiado, Machakos, Kiambu and Nakuru, a disease infected area. The Order introduced a new lockdown, barring travel by road or air; suspended all public gatherings and in-person meetings of whatever nature, including for parliament and county assemblies "until further notice." The ongoing curfew hours are revised from 20h00 to 04h00 in those counties, while a curfew was introduced for the rest of the country between 22h00 and 04h00. All physical meetings or events including social gatherings shall have a cap of no more than 15 persons until further notified. There is a prohibition against political gatherings "until otherwise directed." 

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ministry of Health Measures

The order suspends all public gatherings and meetings for 30 days. The order also states that Kenyans must not "abuse" social media platforms or spread misinformation that "can cause fear and panic." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Expression

Type: order

Public Health (COVID19 Restriction of Movement of Persons and Related Measures) Rules, 2020

The Public Health Rules prohibit public gatherings except for funerals (which are limited to 15 people). Movement is prohibited in and out of places that the Minister has declared infected areas. Public transport services are required to operate at a limited capacity. 

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 17 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Police Brutality in Enforcing Lockdown

Numerous reports indicate that doznes of civilians were killed by Kenyan police during early stages of the COVID-19 lockdown. There are also reports that police used teargas and gunshots without warning at the start of lockdown hours. By April 16, at least 12 deaths had been reported as resulting from police brutality in lockdown enforcement. 

Introduced 15 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Arrests of Peaceful Protesters on Saba Saba

Police arrested fifty peaceful protesters under COVID-19 public gathering ban provisions, and they used tear gas to disperse demonstrators protesting police brutality. 

Introduced 7 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

The border town of Kimhyongjik County, Yanggang Province has been placed under lockdown. The lockdown suspends travel permits for Kimhyongjik County and bans vehicles and persons from entering the town.

Introduced 19 Nov 2021 In effect through 4 December 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Emergency Order and Arrests for Violations

Harsh punishments are being implemented for COVID-19 rule violators. In October, North Korean authorities issued an emergency order to the Ministry of Social Security calling for sweeping arrests of locals who violate the nighttime curfew. The curfew was put in place by an emergency order issued by the Ministry of Social Security on Oct. 7. Reports suggest that those sent to political prisons may be forced to spend their lives there.

Introduced 7 Oct 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Maximum Emergency System

Kim Jong-un called an emergency meeting of the Politburo in order to put in place a "maximum emergency system" in response to the pandemic. This announcement also indicated that Kaesong City was in full lockdown and that the Central Emergency Anti-epidemic Headquarters was intensifying efforts to close the country's borders.

Introduced 29 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Movement Restrictions and Lockdown Order

The North Korean authorities place the city of Kaesong under lockdown in response to the country's first suspected case of COVID-19. The government also closed all borders and banned movement into and out of the country.

Introduced 24 Jul 2020 Kaesong lockdown ended 14 August 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Hard Labor Punishment for COVID Rule Violations

North Korea will impose hard labour on those that violate COVID-19 measures, including gathering in groups of more than three outside. Citizens found violating this rule will be sent to a disciplinary labor center by the disease control authorities.

Introduced 11 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Lockdown Restrictions to Prevent Spread of COVID-19

This order provides a set of measures restricting movement between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m., banning interstate travel for persons from "high risk" municipalities, closing down restaurants between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m., and banning public gatherings of more than 5 people. Persons over the age of 65 are allowed to leave the house only between 6 a.m. -10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with the exception of emergency and health needs.

Introduced 11 Nov 2020 29 December 2020 Moved to a tiered system of restriction based on COVID-19 levels.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Weekly Announcement of the Council of Ministers, March 21

Kuwait imposed a nationwide 11- hour curfew from 5 p.m. to 4 a.m. The national guard was ordered to assist the police in enforcing the lockdown. 

Introduced 22 Mar 2020 Extended and expanded on 6 April 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Ministerial Decision No. 64 of 2020 on Gatherings

The decision bans any type of gathering, whether held in public or private areas. The order penalizes anyone who violates the decision with imprisonment of up to 3 months, in accordance with Decree No. 8 of 1969.

قرار وزاري رقم 64 لسنة 2020 بشأن التجمعات

 ÙŠØ­Ø¸Ø± القرار أي نوع من التجمعات سواءً أقيمت في أماكن عامة أو خاصة. Ùˆ يعاقب أي شخص يخالف القرار بالسجن لمدة تصل إلى 3 أشهر بموجب القانون رقم 8 لسنة 1969.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

State of Emergency

The order establishes a "state of emergency" for thirty days throughout the Kyrgyz Republic, due to the coronavirus. All public gatherings including rallies, demonstrations, and strikes, are prohibited.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

STOP COVID-19 Tracking App

The government of Kyrgyzstan launched the STOP COVID-19 mobile phone app to trace the location of individuals suspected of having, or known to have, COVID-19. By May 2020, the app, which was developed by the State Committee for IT and Communications, had led to the arrest of 151 individuals for leaving their homes, and imposition of fines of over $800. It is not known which government agency has access to the information gathered by the app, or where the information is stored. Due to the uncertainties surrounding the app’s use, privacy advocates argue that the app violates personal privacy protections and cybersecurity protected by Kyrgyz law. 

Introduced 19 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: practice

Vientiane Lockdown Order

The Prime Minister ordered a lockdown of Vientiane banning all social events or gatherings, as well as movement into or out of designated COVID-19 "red zones." The order also continues "strict surveillance" of migrants at Laos' border crossings.

Introduced 19 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Discrimination, Surveillance, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 06/PM on the Reinforcement of Measures for the Containment, Prevention, and Full Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Order imposes general restrictions on movement outside the home and on inter-regional travel. The Order prohibits public gatherings of more than 10 persons and "strictly prohibit[s] the advertisement of, release, forward of any fake news via any media platform that can cause misunderstanding, panic and create negative impact on society." An agency is tasked with surveillance responsibilities to that end. The Order also indicates that the military will be involved in the enforcement of lockdown measures. Updates on restrictions and extensions are available here. 

Introduced 31 Mar 2020 Extended through 15 September 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Surveillance, Press Freedom, Expression, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

No. 103 on the Declaration of Emergency Situation

The order establishes an "emergency situation" throughout Latvia for one month, on account of the coronavirus. All public gatherings for meetings, marches, and rallies, as well as for religious or cultural purposes are prohibited, regardless of the number of participants. The order prohibits border crossings by air, rail, and road with limited exceptions. The order provides for administrative and criminal penalties to be applied in case of violations. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown Order and Curfew

The order imposed a curfew from 6:00pm to 5:00am, restrictions to travel on public roadways, and reduced entries from Lebanon's land borders.

Introduced 4 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decision No. 54/2020 Imposing a Curfew

The decision, issued under the "state of general mobilization" declared on March 15, prohibits individuals from moving or driving from 7pm to 5am. The Law on National Defense authorizes the military and security forces to control transportation during a state of general mobilization.

القرار رقم 54 لسنة 2020 بشأن فرض حظر التجول

 Ø§Ù„قرار الصادر بموجب "حالة التعبئة العامة" المعلن في 15 مارس يحظر على الأفراد التنقل أو قيادة السيارات من الساعة السابعة مساءً إلى الساعة الخامسة صباحاً. يفوض قانون الدفاع الوطني القوات العسكرية والأمنية بالسيطرة على وسائل النقل أثناء حالة التعبئة العامة.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

State of General Mobilization

The government announces a "state of general mobilization" under by Article 2 of Legislative Decree No. 102/1983 (Law on National Defense), on account of the health emergency caused by Covid-19. The decision stipulates that people should stay at home until March 29 (later extended until April 26), and refrain from leaving except for essential reasons. The decree also prohibits all gatherings in all private and public places.

حالة التعبئة العامة

 Ø§Ù„حكومة تعلن عن "حالة التعبئة العامة" بموجب المادة 2 من المرسوم التشريعي رقم 102 لسنة 1983 (قانون الدفاع الوطني)ØŒ بسبب الطوارئ الصحية الناشئة عن فيروس كورونا المستجد. ينص القرار على وجوب بقاء الأشخاص في منازلهم حتى 29 مارس (تم تمديده لاحقاً حتى 26 أبريل)ØŒ والامتناع عن مغادرتها إلا لأسباب جوهرية. يحظر القرار أيضاً جميع التجمعات في جميع الأماكن الخاصة والعامة.

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Declaration of COVID-19 State of Emergency Order 26 of 2020

The Prime Minister declares a national "state of emergency" and orders a nationwide lockdown, beginning March 30. All social gatherings are prohibited except for funerals where not more than 50 people are expected to attend. The decree also provides that members of the press must "refrain from publishing fake news." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

Regulation of "Fake" News under Pretext of Addressing Pandemic

On April 29, Liberia's solicitor general announced that the government would shut down news outlets disseminating "fake news", providing Liberia's COVID-19 state of emergency law as justification.  At the same time, the government announed a shift in press pass policies, rendering journalists unable to cover the pandemic. The shift in press pass policies was accompanied by an announcement that constitutional rights to free movement, assembly, speech and press were being temporarily suspended.

Introduced 29 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: order

State of Emergency

President Weah declares a "state of emergency" for three weeks, renewable until the threat posed by COVID-19 subsides. During this period, residents may only leave home for essential journeys, which should be restricted to local communities and be limited to a single person per household for a maximum of one hour. The order tasks the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia and the Chairman of the National Joint Security with enforcing this stay-home policy. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Declaration of National Health Emergency

The Minister of Health declares a "national health emergency" on account of the coronavirus, and among other things bans all gatherings of more than 10 people. Individuals are required to report those who show signs of COVID-19 to the health and security authorities. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Privacy

Type: order

Government of National Accord (GNA) Presidential Council Resolution of No. 277 of 2020

Libya's UN-backed government imposes a lockdown and a ban on individual movement for 10 days starting from April 17, 2020, with limited exceptions for the transport and sale of food. Moving on foot is allowed between 7am and 12pm only.

قرار المجلس الرئاسي لحكومة الوفاق الوطني رقم 277 لسنة 2020

 Ø§Ù„حكومة الليبية المدعومة من الأمم المتحدة تفرض إغلاقاً وحظراً على تنقل الأفراد لمدة 10 أيام بدءاً من 17 أبريل 2020ØŒ مع استثناءات محدودة لنقل وبيع المواد الغذائية. يسمح بالتنقل على الأرجل بين الساعة السابعة صباحاً والساعة الثانية عشرة ظهراً فقط.

Introduced 17 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Crisis

The order from the Grand Duke declares a "state of crisis" in accordance with Article 32(4) of the Constitution, among other things imposes strict limitations on individuals' movement, and provides for a fine of 145 Euroes in case of violation. The state of crisis is in place for 10 days, unless extended by the Chamber of Deputies, by a two-thirds majority. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 2020-359, Proclaiming the State of Health Emergency Throughout the Territory of the Republic

The Presidential order declares a state of emergency for fifteen days. The decree delegates control of movement of persons and vehicles to the Prime Minister. The decree also grants emergency powers to several ministers, including the Minister of National Defense, the Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Development, and the Secretary of State at the Ministry of National Defense in charge of the Gendarmerie. The state of emergency declaration was subsequently renewed every two weeks, through October 2020. 

Introduced 21 Mar 2020 Extended through October 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

State of Disaster

The order establishes a one-month "state of disaster" due to the coronavirus. Among other things, the order prohibits gatherings of more than 100 individuals. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Public Health (Corona Virus Prevention, Containment and Management) Rules

The Minister of Health imposes a nationwide lockdown that prohibits all individual movement, with limited exceptions. Individuals in need of an essential service outside of their locality are required to obtain a permit from their local council. All gatherings of more than ten people are suspended. The Malawi Defence Force, the Malawi Police Service and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services will be deployed to ensure strict compliance with these measures. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 8 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: regulation

Ban on Mass Holiday Gatherings

Malaysia announced new COVID-19 restrictions in response to the Omicron variant. The government banned mass gatherings, covering the Christmas and New Years' holidays. Those attending private New Year and Christmas celebrations must undergo COVID-19 self-tests. 

Introduced 16 Dec 2021 Expires 31 December 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Enhanced Movement Control Order

The national government imposed an Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCOs) on areas with high COVID-19 rates in Sabah, Pahang, and Kelantan. These orders include strict stay at home decrees and restrictions on travel into or out of the affected area. Similar EMCOs have been issued throughout the pandemic in other areas of Malaysia.

Introduced 26 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Full Closure Order

The Prime Minister ordered a two-week nationwide "Total Lockdown" which closed all non-essential businesses and required people to stay within 10 kilometers of their homes.

Introduced 28 May 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restriction of Movement Order

The order mandates a "complete restriction" of movement and assembly nationwide. The order closes all houses of worship, non-essential businesses, and all government and private premises, except for those providing essential services. The order also bars Malaysians from travelling overseas, and prevents visitors from entering the country.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Repression of Peaceful Assemblies

The authorities have used pandemic regulations such as the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act (National Recovery Plan) Regulations 2021 to investigate and prosecute individuals for exercising the right to peaceful assembly. In June 2021, officals investiagted participants in "Black Flag" protests of the government's handling of the pandemic. In July 2021, law enforcement officials arrested 31 attendees of a COVID-19 memorial rally for alleged violations of COVID-19 rules, as well as Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 for gathering without notice. The police also investigated and reportedly harassed doctors protesting unfair working conditions for allegedly violating COVID restrictions on gatherings. In 2020, Malaysian police arrested and charged members of the National Union of Workers in Hospital Support and Allied Services for carrying out a peaceful protest against low wages and working conditions. Police said they took action under Regulation 7 (1) of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Regulations 2020. 

Introduced 19 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Arrest of Migrants for Violating COVID-19 Movement Control Order

Immigration authorites arrested hundreds of migrants for allegedly violating a COVID- movement control order and restrictions on public gatherings. The Home Minister said that the arrests would "protect Malaysians" and "help" migrants get vaccinated. The arrestees included refugees from Myanmar and other countries.

Introduced 21 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Discrimination, Movement

Type: practice

Repression of Criticism of the Government's Pandemic Response

The police charged artist Fahmi Reza under the Sedition Act for creating a Spotify playlist satirizing a controversial tweet by Malaysia's queen related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fahmi and another artist are also facing criminal defamation investigations for cartoons critical of the official pandemic response. The day after Fahmi's arrest, the authorities arrested activist Mukmin Nantang and six others under the Peaceful Assembly Act for protesting the 14-day extension of strict movement control orders. 

Introduced 23 Apr 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Delayed Voter Registration and Arrests at Protests in Response

Citing COVID-19, the government delayed voter registration reforms that would affect more than 1.2 million young voters. Civil society groups filed a lawsuit challenging the delay and staged a large-scale demonstration. 11 individuals linked to organizing the were called for questioning under the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) for gathering without notification, and the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures Within Infected Local Areas) (Conditional MCO) (No. 4).

Introduced 29 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: practice

State of Health Emergency and Curfew

The President of Mali announced a state of health emergency and an indefinite curfew between 9:00pm and 5:00am. Land borders were also closed, with the exception of freight and the transport of goods. 

Introduced 26 Mar 2020 Lifted on 9 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

The decree indefinitely suspends all meetings, seminars and colloquiums, and bans social, political, cultural gatherings of more than 50 people.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Curfew and Ban on Gatherings

The Mauritanian Ministry of Interior issued a ban on gatherings, as well as a curfew between the hours of 12:00 am and 6:00am.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The Prime Minister and an Interministerial Committee announce their decision to suspend all events and demonstrations, and restrict border crossings. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Quarantine (Quarantinable Diseases) Regulations, 2020

The order, issued by the Minister of Health and Wellness under Section 4 of the Public Health Act, imposes a complete lockdown for 14 days, including on supermarkets. Police have authority to enter any premises without a warrant to enforce compliance with the regulations. Criminal sanctions can be imposed for violations, including imprisonment of up to 6 months. Essential service workers must apply for an access permit to attend work on-site. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Border Closure

The government closed the northern and southern land borders to address the spread of COVID-19.

Introduced 18 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Preventive Measures to Mitigate and Control Health Risks Caused by COVID-19

The regulation issued by the Ministry of Health suspends "until further notice" mass events and meetings and congregations of more than 100 people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Bulletin No. 144/2021

The Mexican Government announced the installation of new "sanitary and inspection filters" on the south border with Guatemala, authorizing the use of drones and night vision equipment. Land crossings for non-essential activities are banned for 30 days, with the possibility for extension. 

Introduced 19 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Surveillance, Movement

Type: policy

Parliamentary Decision on the Declaration of State of Emergency

The parliamentary decision declares a "state of emergency," under Article 66 of the Constitution, on account of the coronavirus. Among other things, the declaration provides for a prohibition on meetings, public demonstrations, and other mass events; coordination of mass media related to the crisis; and introduction of "special rules" for telecommunications during the crisis. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: law

Decree No. 7 on the National Emergency Public Health Commission

The decree suspends religious meetings and services, conducted by all congregations, throughout the entire territory of Moldova. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree No. 6 of the National Emergency Public Health Commission

The decree prohibits mass demonstrations, events, and rallies of more than 50 persons. The decree also bans persons under self-isolation from leaving the territory of the Republic of Moldova.

Introduced 10 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The Cabinet ordered the prohibition of all public gatherings in response to COVID-19. At the time of the order, there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mongolia. 

Introduced 26 Jan 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decisions Related to Movement and Public Gatherings

The Decisions restrict public gatherings of more than 4 adults, except for persons performing their regular work tasks. Private gatherings in residential buildings are also banned, except for household members and those who are taking care of sick persons. A curfew is imposed from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., with a few exceptions. Inter-city travel is not permitted. 

Introduced 25 Nov 2020 In force until 8 December 2020, with extension possible.

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Temporary Measures to Combat the Spread of Coronavirus

Ministry of Health adopts new temporary measures to combat the spread of coronavirus. Among other things the measures ban gatherings in outdoor or indoor public places, and provide that non-compliance is subject to criminal penalty. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree No. 2-20-293 Declaring a Health Emergency

The government declares a nationwide "state of health emergency" from March 20 until April 20, unless renewed. The order prohibits the movement of any person outside his home, except in cases of extreme necessity, and prohibits any meeting or gathering of groups of people for any reason.

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

The presidential decree declares a 30-day "state of emergency," along with a Stage 3 level of emergency to contain the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. Public and private gatherings are prohibited, while entertainment establishments and schools are been closed until further notice.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown Order

The military junta imposed a nationwide lockdown order prohibiting travel except for official duties or emergency situations. Local authorities in areas with high COVID-19 rates were authorized to impose stricter measures, including requiring people to request official permission to leave their homes.

Introduced 16 Jul 2021 Extended through 30 September 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Stay-at-Home and Curfew order

Authorities issued new public health orders extending a nightly curefew and travel restrictions, including a suspension on international passenger flights. Officials in areas with higher COVID-19 rates may implement stricter measures, such as more stringent curfew hours and requiring people to obtain permission from the local administration before leaving the area.

Introduced 16 Jul 2021 Extended through 30 September 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Stay-at-home order in Yangon region (Order 107/2020)

The Ministry of Health and Sports issued a stay-at-home order (Order 107/2020) in Yangon region. The stay-at-home order bars residents from travelling between townships. Members of several professions may seek an exemption to the travel restrictions (including doctors, emergency workers, and police officers). However, journalists are not exempted and the restriction stops the work of drivers of newspaper delivery trucks. Rights groups said the restriction would make it more difficult for news organizations to cover Myanmar’s national election, which is scheduled for Nov. 8.

Introduced 21 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Press Freedom, Expression, Movement

Type: order

Health Ministry Order on Movement

The Health Ministry ordered restrictions on the movement of residents in seven Yangon townships (Bahan, Insein, Hlaing Tharyar, Mayangone, Pabedan, Shwe Pyi Thar and South Okkalapa). Failure to comply could lead to up to 6 months in jail. Residents may only travel to and from work and must wear face masks at all times when outside. Only one member from each household is allowed to leave their home to buy groceries; two can travel together only for medical emergencies. Anyone needing to travel in larger groups must get permission from ward administrators. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Ministry of Health and Sports Order No. 37/2020

The order, issued under Article 21(b) of the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases Law, bans groups of 5 or more people from assembling, including for religious gatherings. The order provides limited exceptions for individuals gathering to carry out essential functions, such as government and factory workers.

Introduced 16 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Widespread Arrests for Curfew Violations

At least 500 people were sentenced to between one month and one year in prison for curfew and quarantine violations from late March to late May. 

Introduced 20 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Labor Activists Imprisoned for Breaking COVID-19 Orders

Six labor rights activists, including two union leaders, were sentenced to three months imprisonment for leading strikes which violated COVID-19 orders. They were sentenced, inter alia, for “wilful failure to comply” with government directives for “natural disaster management” under section 30a of the Natural Disaster Management Law; for defying the governemnt ban on gatherings of five people or more; and for violating a night-time curfew under section 188 of the Penal Code.

Introduced 5 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Jail sentences for violating COVID-19 movement restrictions

Myanmar authorities have sentenced at least 500 people to between one month and one year in prison for violating curfews, quarantines, or other movement control orders.

Introduced 30 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

State of Emergency COVID 19 Regulations, 2020

The regulations among other provisions impose a two-week nationwide "lockdown" from March 27, with restrictions on individual movement. The regulations also prohibit gatherings of 10 or more people, and provide that anyone who violates the prohibition is subject to a penalty of six months in prison and a N$2,000 fine. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 28 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Ban on Public Gatherings

The Nepali government banned assemblies of more than 25 people for cultural, social and religious activities at party palaces, temples, monasteries, mosques, churches, and other religious and public spaces.

Introduced 18 Mar 2020 Temporarily renewed in Kathmandu on 8/19/2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decision by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration Regarding Implementation of the COVID-19 Action Plan

Nepal has not invoked a state of emergency but has regulated the COVID-19 situation pursuant to its Infectious Disease Act, 1964, amended in 2020. A nation-wide lockdown, issued as per Section 2, Infectious Disease Act, 1964, has restricted movement and banned gatherings of 25 or more. Movie theaters, cultural centers, theaters, playgrounds, gyms, health clubs, museums, and swimming pools were closed. Vehicle capacity for public transportation was limited.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Police Brutality in COVID-19 Lockdown Enforcement

Police enforcement of lockdowns led to 187 cases of human rights violations, including 30 incidents involving excessive use of force by police against citizens.

Introduced 21 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Arrest of Peaceful Protesters and Use of Excessive Force

At least ten peaceful protesters demanding better testing and quarantine facilities for returning migrant workers were arrested for violation of lockdown orders. Police have responded to protests with force, using water cannons, batons and tear gas to disperse protesters. 

Introduced 13 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Prison Sentences Imposed for Violation of Lockdown Order

On June 11, 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the Council of Ministers had acted upon its authority under the Infectious Diseases Act of 2020 in order to institute penalties of imprisonment or fines for anyone who disobeyed lockdown regulations. 

Introduced 11 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

COVID-19 Temporary Measures Act

This bill provides for temporary expansion of regional ministers' power to regulate public gatherings for the duration of the pandemic. 

Introduced 13 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: law

Decision 1666478-203555-PG on Regional Emergencies

The central government’s decision orders all regions of the Netherlands to adopt emergency decrees, under the law on public health. The regional decrees must limit public gatherings, defined as groups of three or more people who are not maintaining 1.5 meters of distance between them. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Emergency COVID-19 Safety Ordinance for Amsterdam-Amstelland Region

The emergency ordinance prohibits organizing or participating in meetings, through June 1, to combat the spread of Covid-19. The ordinance provides exceptions including for governmental meetings, funerals and weddings, and religious meetings, as long as participants maintain 1.5 meters of distance among one another. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 2 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: regulation

Lockdown Order

The government ordered a nationwide lockdown at Alert Level 4. The lockdown does not permit gatherings and institutes a strict stay-at-home directive. The lockdown was lifted after several weeks throughout most of the country but remained in place in Auckland until December 2021.

Introduced 17 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Section 70(1)(m) Health Act Order on Mandatory Self-Isolation

The order closes all premises other than government offices and essential businesses, and prohibits outdoor congregations of people, whether in public or private spaces. The order remains in effect "until further notice." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 25 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Ministerial Communique No. 12/CM/2020 Declaring a State of Emergency

The decree by the Council of Ministers declares a nationwide "state of emergency," that among other provisions includes an overnight curfew in the city of Niamey, effective March 28. The curfew will be in effect for a two-week period between the hours of 7pm and 6am local time. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The government of Niger State issued an order banning gatherings of more than 50 people, indefinitely, to combat the spread of COVID-19. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: law

Lockdown on Bauchi State

Nigerian authorities announce a 14-day lockdown on Bauchi state to prevent further spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Citizens are ordered to stay at home, with permission to leave to buy food and seek medical care between 10am and 4pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays only.

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Lockdown on Major Cities and States

The presidential order institutes a 14-day lockdown on individuals' movement in Abuja, Lagos, Ogun State and the Federal Capital Territory. The lockdown does not apply to hospital and medical institutions and certain commercial establishments including food, petroleum, electricity, and private security companies. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Prohibition on Mass Gatherings

The Presidential Task Force on countering the coronavirus threat reiterates a ban on gatherings of 50 or more people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Arrest of Peaceful Protestors

Security forces arrested 62 anti-government protesters in two locations on August 5, for breaching social distancing rules. Police also used teargas to disperse the demonstrations. 

Introduced 5 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Police Brutality in Enforcing Lockdown

On April 15, the Nigerian National Human Rights Commission reported that the Nigerian Correctional Service, comprising police and army officers, had killed at least 18 civilians during lockdown enforcement. The Commission also reported that it had received 105 petitions from the families of those killed. By the time the report was issued, the number of deaths caused by security forces exceeded the number of deaths caused by coronavirus. The NHRC subsequently established a panel to investigate the brutality. 

Introduced 15 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Measures and Recommendations from the 25th, 26th, and 28th Session of the Government

The measures impose a ban on movement from 9pm-5am during the week, and from 4pm-5am during the weekend, with exceptions for emergencies. The measures also ban the movement of persons older than 67 from 11am-5am. Gatherings of groups larger than 5 people in public places and spaces are also prohibited. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decision on Measures to Prevent the Introduction and Spread of Coronavirus

Among other things, the new measures include a prohibition on indoor or outdoor gatherings of any size, and provide for criminal penalties in case of violation.

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

National COVID-19 Measures

The National COVID-19 Measures require all travellers arriving in Norway to register before they cross the border. A maximum of 100 people are allowed at indoor events where all of the participants sit in designated, distanced seating. A maximum of 200 people are allowed at outdoor events.

Introduced 5 Nov 2020 Measures have been extended and adjusted since their implementation. Latest update as of 4/16/21

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

National Lockdown Order

The Supreme Committee for Dealing with COVID-19 issued an order preventing movement and closing all public places and shops between July 25, 2020 and August 8, 2020, between the hours of 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

Introduced 25 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Supreme Covid-19 Control Committee Decision

The Committee decision prohibits all Ramadan gatherings, such as iftar meals and barbecues, at mosques or in any other public place. The Committee also bans social, sports, cultural and recreational activities, and extends the lockdown of Muscat Governorate through May 8.

قرار اللجنة العليا للتعامل مع كوفيد-19

 ÙŠÙ†Øµ قرار اللجنة على حظر كل التجمعات الرمضانية، مثل وجبات الإفطار وحفلات الشواء، في المساجد أو في أي مكان عام آخر. كما يحظر قرار اللجنة الأنشطة الاجتماعية والرياضية والثقافية والترفيهية، ويمدد إغلاق محافظة مسقط حتى 8 مايو.

Introduced 20 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Suspension of Newspapers and Ban on Gatherings

The Supreme Committee for Dealing with COVID-19 orders all newspapers, magazines, and other publications to cease printing, and prohibits the circulation and sale of imported newspapers, magazines, and publications as well. The order also bans gatherings of any kind in public places, and provides that violators will be sanctioned.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

Drones to Limit Social Gatherings

Oman authorities are using drones to patrol areas and limit social gatherings.

طائرات بدون طيار للحد من التجمعات الاجتماعية

السلطات العمانية تستخدم طائرات بدون طيار للقيام بدوريات في المناطق والحد من التجمعات الاجتماعية.

Introduced 6 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy

Type: practice

Lockdown of Punjab

The Punjab government ordered a complete lockdown to restrict movement during the pandemic. Military personnel were deployed at the entry and exit points to major cities. The lockdown was eased but remained in place in at least 35 districts as of October 2021.

Introduced 8 May 2021 Extended in at least 35 districts through October 2021

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Lockdown of Sindh Province

The government of Sindh province issues a complete ban on movement and gatherings of any kind for any purpose at any place, with limited exceptions for gatherings of essential workers.

Introduced 22 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Localized Movement Restrictions

The municipal authorities in Islamabad introduced localized movement controls in response to surging COVID-19 rates. Particular streets have been cordoned off by the capital police to control entry/exit. 

Introduced 11 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: regulation

Arrests of Student Protestors

Students across Pakistan have been protesting against mandatory online classes because they lack reliable internet service and/or cannot afford devices for online learning. Arrests of protesters took place in Balochistan and students were charged with organising a rally during a lockdown. 

Introduced 25 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Emergency Order No. 1 of 2020

The decision, issued by the Prime Minister pursuant to his emergency powers, among other things restricts individuals' movement among governorates; prohibits gatherings of people including meetings, workshops, conferences, and demonstrations; and closes educational facilities and houses of worship. The decision also prohibits officials from making "any statement" to the press without permission from the Prime Minister. The decision generally prohibits all individuals from "dealing with any rumors or untrustworthy information, and the transferring and broadcasting thereof," and indicates that individuals should obtain information "from official sources only." The Prime Minister's decision orders all national security forces to ensure the decision's implementation, while protecting individuals' rights and freedoms.

Introduced 6 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Curfew and Movement Restrictions

The Health Minister announced new measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, such as obligatory quarantine and curfews across multiple districts. In several districts with the highest number of cases, a total lockdown is in effect.

Introduced 27 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Resolution 360 of the Ministry of Health

This measure restricts individuals' movement using sex as a basis for determining when individuals are permitted outside. The measure also imposes restrictions on the ability of persons older than 60 years of age to leave their homes. 

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: order

Executive Order No. 490 Declaring a Curfew in the Republic of Panama

The Decree imposes a curfew from 9pm until 5am with limited exceptions, in order to combat the spread of coronavirus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

National Pandemic Act

The National Pandemic Act restricts the following rights in the face of public health emergencies: the liberty of persons, the freedom from arbitrary search and entry, the freedom of expression, the freedom of assembly and association, the right to privacy, the right to freedom of information, and the right to freedom of movement. The Act was explicitly passed as a non-emergency law, meaning that its provisions do not expire with the end of the COVID-19 emergency. The Act affords power to declare and to revoke a "Public Health Emergency" to the Head of State, "acting on advice." The Act enables the Head of State to appoint the Controller, who has the power to impose measures such as forced medical observations and domestic movement restrictions. The Act empowers the Head of State to involve the Defence Force in the Controller's activities.  This Act was passed quickly through the parliament without adequate consultation of civil society, and was met with significant opposition due to the risks that it poses to human rights and its failure to include certain Constitutional protections (such as limiting the potential duration of an emergency delcaration to two months). The Act was invoked in early August 2020, and then the declaration of a Public Health Emergency was revoked on September 3, 2020. 

Introduced 16 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement, Militarization

Type: law

Emergency (General Provisions) (COVID 19) Bill 2020

The Act is made to regulate or restrict "liberty of persons," "the freedom of arbitrary search and entry," and "the right to freedom of movement." The Act establishes the functions of the Emergency Controller, giving them the responsibility to control the pandemic in Papua New Guinea. The Act gives the Emergency Controller the authority to issue emergency orders, restrict or issue direction for movement of persons, give direction with respect to occupation and operation of premises, enter and search any premises and seize items, require persons to "provide information or answer questions," direct persons to be quarantined, direct persons to undergo medical observation, and to regulate all modes of transportation.  Persons who do not comply with Emergency Controller orders are subject to fines of over US $14,000. This Act replaces the Emergency (General Provisions) (COVID 19) Regulation.

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Privacy, Movement

Type: law

State of Emergency

The State of Emergency was originally declared by the Prime Minister in a statement given on March 22, for period of 14 days. The declaration allowed the Commissioner of Police to "assume control" of the emergency situation and to call upon the military to "ensure lawful order, control and response to SOE control measures." The order indicated that during the 14-day period, there was to be no public transportation and no movement from one province to another. Workplaces and educational institutions were closed. The Prime Minister released a statement on March 23 with an additional State of Emergency provision that "spreading false rumors and organising public gatherings will be charged appropriately."

Introduced 22 Mar 2020 Extended through 2 June 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Decree No. 5885

Decree No. 5885 establishes a limit of 200 people at indoor gatherings and 350 people at outdoor gatherings, in both public and private spaces. The Decree also prohibits movement from 02:00 to 05:00. Decree No. 6029 extended the measures.

Introduced 4 Aug 2021 Extended by Decree No. 6029 until 10/12/2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Resolution No. 90 of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Wellbeing

The regulation suspends large public and private gatherings, all events in enclosed spaces, and all educational activities. Noncompliance is subject to sanctions established by Law No. 836/1980, the Sanitary Code. The regulation is in place for 15 days but may be extended.

Introduced 10 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

No. 044-2020-PCM Declaring a State of Emergency

The decree declares a "state of emergency" on account of the coronavirus pandemic. The decree suspends individual rights under the Constitution of Peru, including the right to peacefully assemble, the right to freedom of movement, and the requirement that the government must have a warrant before it may arrest someone.

State of emergency orders have been renewed monthly by the Peruvian Executive Power since March 16, 2020. 

Introduced 15 Mar 2020 Extended to 30 June 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Granular Lockdown System

The Philippine government piloted a new framework which establishes a “granular lockdown” (smaller, more localized quarantines) and alert level system. The new framework placed the National Capital Region (NCR) under Alert Level 4 beginning September 16. As of September 27, at least 294 areas in the National Capital Region were under granular lockdown, including individual houses, streets, and buildings.

Introduced 16 Sep 2021

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Proclamation No. 929 Declaring a State of Calamity

The executive proclamation declares a nationwide "state of calamity" under Section 15(2) of the Constiution, due to the coronavirus, for six months unless lifted or extended as the circumstances may warrant." The proclamation imposes an enhanced community quarantine throughout the island of Luzon, which includes the capital Manila, from March 17 to April 13. It also directs all law enforcement agencies, "with support from the Armed Forces," to take "all necessary measures" to ensure order in affected areas.

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Resolution No. 11

The order imposes a variety of community quarantine measures on the Metro Manila area. The order calls upon the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ensure the effective and orderly implementation of the lockdown measures. 

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Decree No. 8/2020

The Decree establishes a state of emergency for 15 days, renewable by the government every 15 days. The Decree limits movement on public roads and in public spaces between 11pm and 5am on weekdays and 1pm and 5am on weekends. Exceptions are made for essential travel, as defined by the Decree (including traveling for work, health reasons, buying groceries or medical products, assisting vulnerable people, force majeure, etc.). The Decree also allows for the measurements of body temperature, performed by non-invasive means, in order to control of access to the workplace, to public services or institutions, educational establishments and commercial, cultural or sports spaces, means of transport, in residential structures, health establishments, prisons or educational centers. Security forces and services are responsible for supervising compliance with the provisions of the Decree.

Introduced 8 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Resolution of the Council of Ministers no. 92-A/2020

The Resolution renews the “state of calamity” across the nation and issues restrictions for specific listed municipalities, reviewable every 15 days. Restrictions include a prohibition on gatherings and events of more than five people. 

Introduced 2 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Decree No. 2-A of 2020 Declaring a State of Emergency

The presidential decree declares a state of emergency to limit the spread of the coronavirus. The measures include significant restrictions on movement throughout the country, and a prohibition on public gatherings. The decree is in place for an initial two weeks, and can be extended. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decision No. 52 of 5.11.2020 of the National Committee for Emergency Situations

The National Committee for Emergency Situations imposed a curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., valid for 30 days. Exceptions from the curfew include transport to and from work, seeking medical assistance, purchasing medicine, or providing care to children or the elderly. The Decision also bans gatherings on the occasion of holidays, anniversaries, or parties in closed and/or open spaces, both public and private.

Introduced 6 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Military Ordinance no. 3/2020 on Measures to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19

This order by the Minister of the Interior prohibits non-essential travel outside homes. Extra restrictions are placed on people over age 65, though these restrictions do not apply midday, and they permit those over 65 to travel outside time restrictions for "professional interests" and for "agricultural activities." All persons entering the country are required to isolate at home. Local authorities are instructed to keep a database of homeless persons. The order imposes various restrictions on flights and sea vessels crossing national border. The order also expands the scope of responsibilities of the Ministry of Defense by increasing collaboration between the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of the Interior and border police, and by involving the Ministry of Defense in maintaining domestic public order. The order further indicates that "national security institutions will design communication systems and computer applications, necessary for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Health and local authorities to communicate in real time and permanently with persons quarantined or isolated at home." Additionally, the order indicates that Romanian Police, the Romanian Gendarmerie and the local police are empowered to enforce the stay-at-home order, and it criminalizes non-compliance with the stay-at-home order. 

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Military Ordinance no. 2/2020 on Measures to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19

This order prohibits gatherings of more than three people who are not cohabitating, and it imposes restrictions on movement outside homes between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am. The order empowers the Romanian Police, the Romanian Gendarmerie, and the local police to take appropriate actions to enforce the order. 

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

Military Ordinance no. 1/2020 on Measures to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19

This order closes restaurants and suspends cultural, scientific, artistic, religious, sports, entertainment or gambling, spa treatment and personal care activities. It prohibits events being held in public places with more than 100 people, and events hosting 100 people have to meet spacing requirements. The order also indicates that individuals who are placed in quarantine may not leave their homes without permission from the relevant authorities, and the order empowers the Romanian Police, the Romanian Gendarmerie, and the local police to take appropriate actions to enforce the order. 

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement, Militarization

Type: order

No. 195 on the Establishment of a State of Emergency in the Territory of Romania

The decree declares a "state of emergency" on account of the coronavirus pandemic. According to the decree, the following rights may be restricted during a state of emergency: freedom of movement, freedom of assembly, privacy, education, private property, and the right to strike. Additionally, the decree provides that the National Authority for Administrative and Regulatory Communications has powers to make "reasoned decisions" to censor online transmission of information related to COVID-19. 

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

Law No. 100-FZ Introducing Changes to the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code

The amendments to Russia's Criminal Code establish new penalties for violations of quarantine orders, according to which an individual who violates the orders may be punished with fines or prison time--ranging from 40,000 rubles ($640) to up to 7 years in prison if the quarantine violation causes two or more deaths. The amendments also establish that public dissemination of false information that threatens the public health during an emergency is punishable by 3 years in prison, or up to 5 years if it leads to "grave consequences." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: law

Decree on measures to ensure sanitary-epidemiological wellbeing of Russian Population

The executive order suspends activities of all state and private organizations and individual enterpreneurs (with some exceptions); establishes special procedures for restrictions on movement within territories (without providing specifics); and authorizes the implementation of "restrictive and other measures" during the period of April 4-30, 2020.

Introduced 2 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Association, Movement

Type: order

Decree of Mayor of Moscow № 34-УМ

Pursuant to powers available under the state of high alert, this order suspends various recreational activities, including by closing playgrounds, museums and movie theaters. It also suspends retail activities and provision of face-to-face services. The order imposes self-quarantine and self-reporting requirements, along with social distancing requirements and restrictions on public transportation. All public events are prohibited until April 10, 2020.

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree of the Mayor of Moscow No. 26-УМ

The Mayoral decree among other things prohibits gatherings of more than 50 individuals. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Nationwide Prohibition on Non-Essential Movement

The notice institutes a complete ban on individuals' movement from their homes, except for essential services, for an initial 14-day period. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Statement on New Measures to Prevent COVID-19 Coronavirus Transmission

The order closed places of worship, schools, and higher educational institutions. This announcement also ordered that large gatherings be postponed, and that "unnecessary" movement be avoided. 

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Week-Long, 24-Hour Curfew

The government ordered a 24-hour curfew from April 1 to April 7. During the curfew, individuals are allowed to leave their homes only for medical emergencies, and only with written authorization from the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO). (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 31 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Amended State of Emergency Orders for COVID-19

The order extends Samoa's state of emergency, newly prohibits all international travel, prescribes the operating hours of essential businesses, and prohibits gatherings of 5 or more. The order also sets forth penalties for violations: Failure to comply is subject to a $200 fine and detention for up to 3 months; violators who are convicted of an offense are liable to a fine of up to $10,000 and up to one year in prison. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

State of Emergency

The decree establishes a "state of emergency" and closes Samoa's borders. Public gatherings are restricted to no more than five people.

Introduced 21 Mar 2020 Last extension on 7/5/2021 until 8/1/2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Law-Decree No. 51 Introducing Urgent Measures to Contain and Manage the COVID19-related Emergency (Coronavirus)

The decree shuts down all commercial activities except for pharmacies, food shops, petrol stations and newsagents. All schools are suspended, but farming is allowed to continue. The decree also bans movement out of the state without proper justification and gatherings of any nature. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Curfew and Lockdowns

The King announced a daily curfew between 7pm and 6am, to last for 21 days.

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Restrictions on Gatherings

The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs issued a decision to all secretariats and municipalities ordering the cessation of all public social gatherings, including those for funeral wakes, weddings, and similar events. The order did not exempt gatherings for political or expressive purposes. The Ministry also directed authorities to temporarily close all places designated for games and recreational activities in and outside commercial complexes.

Introduced 15 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

No. 2020-830 Proclaiming a State of Emergency

The presidential decree proclaims a national "state of emergency." Among other things the proclamation imposes curfews and empowers administrative officials to ban public gatherings, close public spaces, and limit travel between different regions. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Order No. 007782 Relating to the Provisional Ban on Demonstrations or Rallies

The order prohibits all demonstrations or gatherings of people in outdoor or indoor places, for one month. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 14 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

No. 39 of 2020 Banning Public Indoor Gatherings

The order prohibits public indoor gatherings of more than five people, throughout Serbia, in order to combat the spread of Covid-19. The order provides for limited exceptions, including employees of public institutions. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Restrictions and Prohibitions on Movement of Persons

The order imposes a curfew from 5pm to 5am on weekdays, during which individuals may not leave their homes, and prohibits elderly persons from leaving their homes except for Saturdays from 4pm to 7pm. The order also prohibits groups of two or more people from standing or moving together in a public place. The order exempts essential workers and citizens seeking medical care. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Initial Lockdown Measures

The Seychellois president ordered a nationwide lockdown that began on March 30. Per the government's directives, gatherings of more than four people in public places were prohibited, and shops were closed in the evenings.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown

The Defence Minister and National Covid Response Coordinator announce a three-day nationwide lockdown as a containment measure against the spread of the virus. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 5 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

The COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020

Among other things, the law allows the Health Minister to enact "Control Orders" for the purpose of preventing or controlling COVID-19 transmission, including orders to restrict the movement of or contact between people; limiting access to certain places; and prohibiting or restricting participation in any event or gathering in any premises. Failure to comply with the orders may be punished with a fine of up to $10,000, and jail for up to six months. Multiple violations of the rules will result in a doubled penalty. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: law

Preliminary Campaigning Guidelines for General Election Under COVID-19

Singapore's Elections Department released guidelines that ban large public gatherings during the campaign period, citing the COVID-19 pandemic. Such gatherings include rallies and pre-result election meetings. 

Introduced 18 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Elections

Type: order

Amendment to the Employment of Foreign Manpower (Work Passes) Regulations 2012

The amended regulations impose a new requirement on most migrant workers living in Singapore, such that they must obtain permission from their employer before they may leave their living facilities. The amended regulations refer to Singapore's COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations of 2020, but they are not pegged to those regulations or otherwise time-limited. As of late June, an estimated 94% of COVID-19 cases in Singapore were migrant workers living in crowded dormitories.

Introduced 2 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: regulation

The COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulation 2020

The regulations ban gatherings among any individuals who do not live together. Gatherings in public spaces are also prohibited. The regulations further limit the reasons for which people are allowed to leave their homes. Failure to comply with these rules may be punished with a fine of up to $10,000, and jail for up to six months. Multiple violations of the rules will result in a doubled penalty. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Foreign Workers Required to Use Tracing App

The Minister of Health has ordered that all migrant workers living in dormitories must download the national contact tracing app, TraceTogether, by June 19. The app, which is not mandatory for other residents, requires that users register with their foreign identification number or passport number. A separate app, the SGWorkPass, indicates which migrant workers are allowed to leave their dormitories and resume work. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: policy

COVID-19 Testing Regime and Curfew

This measure institutes an antigen testing regime and a curfew. Those carrying a certificate demonstrating their antigen test are exempt from the curfew. Under a subsequent decree, the Chief Hygienist was ordered to mandate that employers and store owners require a negative coronavirus test from anyone attempting to enter their premises. 

Introduced 22 Oct 2020 Extended on 28 October 2020 and 5 November 2020 due to several rounds of country-wide testing.

Issue(s): Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Resolution 284/2020

The resolution prohibits public gatherings of more than six persons. 

Introduced 12 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Ordinance on the Temporary Prohibition on Public Gathering

The ordinance temporarily prohibits individuals from gathering at public meetings and other events in public places, in order to contain the spread of the Covid-19 epidemic. The prohibition remains in place until revoked. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

State of Public Emergency Declaration

The Governor General declared a state of public emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The proclamation allows the Governor General to issue regulations pursuant to the Emergency Powers Act, including restrictions on public assemblies and processions.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020 Extended through November 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Emergency Powers (Covid-19) Regulations 2020

The regulations, issued under the Emergency Powers Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, grant the Prime Minister a range of powers, including the power to: (1) temporarily close public spaces or declare public spaces to be emergency zones and restrict the freedoms of movement and assembly in these emergency zones; (2) suspend access to media outlets and online media outlets if these are found to publish and/or disseminate false information that is likely to create public alarm or that constitutes a threat to public peace and safety; (3) suspend any trade union for any duration during the emergency period and deregister any trade union that contravenes an official government Order; and (4) terminate any public servant that publicly criticizes or contradicts the government or its policies. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: regulation

Disaster Management Regulations of 2020

Among other things, the regulations criminalize making statements intended to deceive another person about any measure taken by the government to address COVID-19. The regulations also prohibit gatherings of more than 100 people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

State of Disaster

The declaration establishes a "state of disaster" under section 27(2) of the Disaster Management Act No. 57 of 2002, due to the coronavirus. The declaration includes a ban on public gatherings of more than 100 people, as well as border and internal travel restrictions.

Introduced 15 Mar 2020 Extended monthly as of 14 Jan 2022

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Repeal and Replacement of Regulations Issued under Sections 27(2) of the Disaster Management Act

The regulations repeals a number of prior orders and regulations issued under the Disaster Management Act, but retain a ban on all public gatherings except at funerals (which are limited to 50 people), workplaces, and gatherings for purchase of commodities. The regulation also provides for a system of contact tracing, and establishes a national COVID-19 Tracing Database. The Database will include the identification and contact information for all persons tested for COVID-19, and the details of known or suspected contacts of any person who tested positive for COVID-19. Within six weeks of the end of the State of Disaster, the Database information must be anonymized; anonymous information may be retained for research and any other information must be destroyed. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 29 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: regulation

Police Brutality during Lockdown

Social media users have shared videos of police brutality against violators of the lockdown that was imposed on March 26, and authorities are investigating several reports of police torture and murder of citizens accused of breaching the lockdown orders. One man was beaten to death by soldiers while he was sipping alcohol outside his house in alleged violation of lockdown regulations. As of June 1, at least 11 people had died following police action during the lockdown, and more than 230,000 people had been arrested for lockdown violations. 

Introduced 1 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: practice

Amendments to Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act No. 14286

Allows the government to criminally prosecute suspected patients who refuse to get tested for the virus with a fine of up to 3,000,000 KRW (~$3,000). The amendment also significantly increases the potential penalty for breaking quarantine to up to one year of imprisonment or a fine of 10,000,000 KRW (~$10,000) for the offense. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 4 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: law

Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act No. 14286

The Act, amended following the MERS epidemic in 2016 and again in 2020, gives the minister of health extensive legal authority to collect private data, without a warrant, from individuals already confirmed or suspected of having an infectious disease. The Act allows authorities to send the whereabouts of certain patients to all smartphones in the patients' vicinity via an emergency text. The Act also allows authorities to restrict or prohibit performances, assemblies, religious ceremonies, or any other large gathering of people.

Introduced 2 Dec 2016

Issue(s): Assembly, Surveillance, Privacy

Type: law

Restrictions on Gatherings and Nightlife

A nationwide ban on gatherings involving more than four unvaccinated people was reinstituted in summer and again in late fall of 2021 due to rising cases. It was amended on Oct. 18, 2021 to allow private gatherings of up to ten people in locations other than Greater Seoul, if six of the participants are fully vaccinated. New social distancing rules put in place in mid-December through early 2022 ban gatherings of five or more people and require eateries and night-time entertainment businesses to close by 9pm.

Introduced 22 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly

Type: order

Use of COVID-19 Laws to Restrict Labor Protests

The Seoul city government filed a police complaint against dozens of youth Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) protesters for staging "illegal" protests violating the infectious disease prevention law (only one-person protests are allowed in the capital and surrounding areas under current social distancing rules). The protesters from South Korea's main labor group were dressed as characters from "Squid Game" and were demanding more jobs and better work conditions.

Introduced 21 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Ministerial Order No. 1 Imposing Curfew

The Minister of Interior's order institutes a daily curfew between 8pm and 6am. Persons providing essential services are exempt from the curfew but are required to carry special permits.

Introduced 25 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 926/2020

The Decree extends the national state of emergency. The Decree introduces new restrictions, including a curfew in public/publicly accessible spaces between 11pm and 6am; restriction of freedom of movement between autonomous regions; and limits on gatherings of people in spaces – both indoors and outdoors – to a maximum of 6 people. 

Introduced 25 Oct 2020 Extended through May 9, 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 463/2020, Declaring a State of Alarm to Manage the Health Crisis Caused by Covid-19

The royal decree institutes a 15-day nationwide "state of alarm," due to the coronavirus pandemic. Among other measures, the decree limits individual movement to certain essential activities (procuring food or medical care), suspends operation of non-essential businesses, and centralizes control of health services and other critical government functions. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 19 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown Order

Sri Lanka imposed a series of nationwide lockdown orders prohibiting movement between 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. The most recent lockdown order expired on 1 October 2021, but public gatherings continue to be prohibited. 

Introduced 20 Aug 2021 Extended three times and expired 1 October 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Curfew Order in Western Province

Sri Lankan authorities have imposed a curfew in the Western Province from 29 October to 2 November 2020(5 am) in (Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara districts). Residents are required to stay home except for emergency or essential purposes and entry into and out of these areas are prohibited until further notice. An indefinite curfew remains in place across several areas of Kegalle, Kurunegala, Nuwara Eliya, Puttalam, and Ratnapura.

Introduced 29 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

President of Sri Lanka Announcement on Curfew

The order imposes a curfew from 4pm-6am every day. Traveling to and from other districts is completely prohibited (except for individuals who are providing essential services). The order further designates some villages as isolated areas, in which no one is allowed to enter or leave. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Assembly Restrictions Ahead of Planned Opposition Rallies (Gazette 2253/10)

The Sri Lanka Minister of Health issued a regulation making it mandatory to obtain prior approval of the Director General of Health Services for gatherings, activities, events or meetings in an effort to curb spread of COVID-19. The regulation was issued days before large-scale protests planned by the government opposition.

Introduced 9 Nov 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Arrests of Peaceful Demonstrators

The government arrested five peaceful demonstrators who were protesting education policy for alleged violations of COVID-19 regulations. The government has repressed human rights defenders, student leaders, and academics for exercising the right to peaceful assembly during the pandemic. 

Introduced 3 Aug 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Generalized Repression in Response to Pandemic

The Defense Ministry, which was appointed to lead the government's response to COVID-19, has arrested over 66,000 people for alleged curfew violations. Incidents of repression of dissent doubled in May, including beatings, arbitrary arrests, surveillance, death threats and hacking of electronic devices. According to Human Rights Watch, Sri Lanka’s police are increasingly killing and abusing people under cover of the COVID-19 pandemic measures.

The Ministry has sought assistance from intelligence agencies, rather than health services, in contact tracing, creating concern among civil society groups. There have been reports of intelligence agents interfering with civil society organizations attempting to service citizens' needs, and of intelligence agents visiting the homes of and making calls to organizations' members. 

Introduced 8 Aug 2020 Updated 8 August 2021

Issue(s): Association, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Lockdown in Major Cities

Authorities announced a three-week lockdown in Khartoum and Omdurman. Essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies will remain open, but only for limited periods. Individuals will be allowed limited movement within their neighborhoods to purchase necessities. A nighttime curfew is in effect nationwide from 8pm to 6am, and a ban on domestic travel remains in place.

الإغلاق في المدن الكبرى

 Ø£Ø¹Ù„نت السلطات عن إغلاق لمدة ثلاثة أسابيع في الخرطوم وأم درمان. ستظل الخدمات الأساسية مثل محلات السوبر ماركت والصيدليات مفتوحة، ولكن لفترات محدودة فقط. سيُسمح للأفراد بالتحرك بصورة محدودة داخل أحيائهم لشراء الضروريات. يسري حظر التجول الليلي في جميع أنحاء البلاد من الساعة الثامنة مساءاً حتى الساعة السادسة صباحاً، ولا يزال حظر السفر الداخلي سارياً.

Introduced 18 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Emergency Order No. 1 of 2020 Declaring a Public Health Emergency

The order declares a "state of public health emergency" in Sudan due to the coronavirus pandemic. The order criminalizes "disseminating incorrect statements or information, including rumors, through any means of publication or misleading the authorities regarding the pandemic." The order also criminalizes a failure to quarantine and interference with transportation of those suspected of being infected with COVID-19. The order criminalizes as well non-compliance with lockdown measures by "being present in public places" and failing to maintain social distance in several different contexts. Non-compliance with authorities requesting medical examinations is also criminalized. The order affords police the authority to close public places in violation of the order, to seize vehicles, to detain and arrest persons in violation, and to take "all necessary measures" to implement the order. 

Introduced 12 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Emergency, Press Freedom, Expression, Privacy, Movement

Type: order

Curfew and Ban on Public Gatherings

The government imposes a nighttime curfew nationwide from 10pm to 6am. The curfew followed a nationwide ban on mass gatherings, instituted on March 20.

Introduced 24 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Closure of Borders and Restrictions on Movement and Gatherings

The government banned gatherings of more than five people, instituted a curfew, and imposed restrictions to travel from outside the country. Persons may travel across the border only after receiving prior approval from the competent Surinamese authorities. The order modifies earlier decrees, including a prior national stay at home order.

Introduced 17 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Countrywide Lockdown

Suriname imposed a shelter-in-place policy, announcing a total lockdown from June 4 until June 12, prohibiting nonessential movement, installing curfews for essential businesses like bakeries, and prohibiting travel by car or taxi with more than two people at a time. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 3 Jun 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ordinance No. 114 Banning the Holding of Public Gatherings and Events

The ordinance prohibits events and assemblies larger than 50 people "for the time being," on account of the epidemic, and allows local officials to restrict smaller gatherings as well. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 12 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Regulation No. 2 on Measures to Combat the Corona Virus

As amended, the regulation, issued under the Epidemics Act, prohibits any gatherings of 5 or more people in public areas. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Regulation on Measures to Combat the Corona Virus

The regulation, issued under the Epidemics Act, prohibits public and private events of 1,000 or more people. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 28 Feb 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: regulation

Ban on Domestic Travel

The government has barred individuals' travel between cities and governorates starting March 29, 2020, until further notice, to combat the spread of coronavirus.

حظر التنقل الداخلي

 Ø­Ø¸Ø±Øª الحكومة تنقل الأفراد بين المدن والمحافظات اعتباراً من 29 مارس 2020 حتى إشعار آخر، وذلك لمكافحة انتشار فيروس كورونا المستجد.

Introduced 29 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restrictions on Public Gatherings

Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) raised its epidemic warning to Level 3 nationwide, limiting gatherings to five people indoors and ten people outdoors.

Introduced 19 May 2021 Extended through 14 June 2021

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Ban on Public Gatherings

The government institutes a 30-day prohibition on public gatherings, including rallies and other political gatherings. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 17 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations, 2020

This set of regulations was signed in July by the Minister of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports. The regulations apply to all content published online, whether on blogs, public accounts, messaging tools like WhatsApp, live streaming, or otherwise. The regulations prohibit citizens from publishing or sharing information on "the outbreak of a deadly or contagious disease in the country or elsewhere without the approval of the respective authorities," under penalty of a fine of more than US$2,000 and imprisonment of one year. The regulations also prohibit online calls for protests, including any "contents that are involved in planning, organizing, promoting and calling for demonstrations, marches or the like that would lead to public disorder." The regulations, issued just prior to elections in Tanzania, have been criticized as being in violation of Articles 13 and 18 of the Constitution.  

Introduced 17 Jul 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: regulation

Lockdown in Samut Sakhon Province

The Samut Sakhon governor imposed a nightly curfew from 10 pm - 5 am and prohibited movement out of the province. Migrant workers not allowed to travel in or out of the province, while Thai nationals can travel to other provinces after reporting their destination to the authorities.

Introduced 20 Dec 2020 Extended through 3 January 2021

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement

Type: order

Declaration of a State of Emergency

The Prime Minister declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, asserting that the escalating protests by pro-democracy groups contravened the law and the constitution, undermined measures to curtail Covid-19, and harmed national security and public safety. The decree prohibits gatherings of more than five people in Bangkok and institutes a nationwide ban on publishing and broadcasting news that could incite fear. 

Introduced 15 Oct 2020 Lifted on 10/22/2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: order

Order Issued under 2005 Decree on Administration in Emergency Situations

The ministerial decree among other things bars reporting or spreading of information regarding COVID-19 which is untrue and may cause public fear, as well as deliberate distortion of information which causes misunderstanding and hence affects peace and order or public morals. The decree empowers authorities to order journalists and media groups to correct reports deemed incorrect, and allows authorities to pursue charges against journalists under the Computer Crimes Act, which allows for five-year prison penalties for violations. The decree also bans all gatherings.

Introduced 25 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information

Type: order

Regulation No. 27 Issued under Section 9 of the Royal Decree on Public Administration in Emergency Situations B.E. 2548 (2005)

The Regulation establishes a curfew for certain provinces, including the Bangkok metropolitan area, between 9:00pm and 4:00am. Gatherings of more than 5 persons are prohibited. The Regulation also "prohibits the spread or dissemination of news (whether by books, publications or any other media) that includes content which may: (i) incite fear among the public, or (ii) intentionally distort information to cause misunderstanding in emergency situations which affects the security of the state or the public's good morals across Thailand." Violators could face a fine of up to THB 40,000 and/or imprisonment up to 2 years.

Regulation No. 28 of 19 July 2021 further tightened movement restrictions in Bangkok and other areas with high COVID-19 rates.

Introduced 12 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Movement

Type: regulation

Increased Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters Following Emergency Decree

Since the imposition of the COVID-19 Emergency Decree on March 26, 2020, civil society groups have reported increased detention and harassment of peaceful protestors. In July 2021, police used rubber bullets and tear gas to forcibly disperse protests marking the one year anniversary of Thailand's "Free Youth" pro-democracy movement and to enforce COVID-19 lockdown measures. 

Introduced 20 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: practice

Arrests of Government Critics for Social Distancing Violations

According to rights activists, Thai authorities are using Covid-19 regulations as a pretext to silence critics of the government. Several pro-democracy activists who took part in anti-government rallies were arrested and charged with violating social distancing measures. 

Introduced 13 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Decree No. 3/2020 Measures for the Implementation of the Declaration of State of Emergency

The Decree imposes a mandatory quarantine for 14 days of those arriving into the country, limits movement around the country, and prohibits gatherings and demonstrations involving more than five people. 

Introduced 28 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Decree of the President of the Republic No. 29/2020 Declaring a State of Emergency

The President of Timor-Leste declared a State of Emergency in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, in effect for 30 days. The State of Emergency partially suspends the rights to assembly and freedom of movement.

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Overnight Curfew

Togolese authorities imposed a 21:00 to 05:00 (local time) overnight curfew in the prefectures of Tchaoudjo, Tchamba, and Sotouboua, citing a spike in COVID-19 cases. Local lockdowns have also been announced for the cities of Sokode, Tchamba, and Adjengre, where the majority of recently confirmed cases of the disease have been concentrated. The announcement came a week after the country's state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic was extended until September 15, 2020.

Introduced 25 Aug 2020 Lifted on 10/8/20; re-imposed 12/20/20 until 1/3/21

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Declaration of National Health Emergency and Curfew

In his address, the president declares a three-month nationwide "health emergency," and a six-month period of exceptional lawmaking authority under Article 86 of the Constitution. A nationwide curfew will also be in place between 7pm and 6am, beginning April 2. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Prohibition on Mass Gatherings

The Council of Ministers issued a series of decisions to address the pandemic, including the cancellation of all international events in Togo for three weeks, and a one-month prohibition on gatherings of 100 or more persons. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Lockdown Order

Tonga imposed a week-long lockdown upon confirmation of one Covid-19 case, including a curfew from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM and a halt to all public transport. Restaurants, bars and clubs, schools, and churches must close and social distancing will be enforced. Police arrested 124 people for violations.

Introduced 2 Nov 2021 Expired 8 November 2021

Issue(s): Association, Assembly, Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency

The government declares a "state of emergency," to prevent the spread of COVID-19. During the state of emergency, foreign nationals are banned from entering Tonga, and Tongan nationals must be quarantined for 14-days upon arrival. Public gatherings are restricted to a maximum of 20 people, and all concerts, sports events, funerals, weddings, and birthdays are banned.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020 Last extension on 7/5/2021, until 8/2/2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Emergency Regulations 2021

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago declared a state of emergency and established a daily curfew between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. The emergency regulations banned public gatherings of more than five people and instituted movement restrictions with no exceptions for human rights defenders or civil society groups. The regulations also gave the police broad powers to arrest individuals for violating government COVID-19 policies. 

Introduced 15 May 2021 Lifted on 17 November 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Public Health [2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCov)] (No. 4) Regulations, 2020

The Regulations prohibit public gatherings of more than 10 people and non-essential work for two weeks. The Regulations have been amended dozens of times to include varying degrees of quarantine and lockdown measures. All amendedments are available here.  

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 27 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The Prime Minister announced a ban on all gatherings and public or private demonstrations.

Introduced 10 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Governmental Decree No. 2020-152 of 13 March 2020

The decree declares COVID-19 a communicable disease, governed by Law No. 92-71 of 1992 on communicable diseases, which allows authorities to apply quarantine, prevention, and control measures. The declaration also allows the government to impose criminal sanctions provided for in other legislation, such as Article 312 of the Penal Code, which provides that anyone who contravenes prohibitions and prophylactic or control measures ordered in times of epidemic can be punished with six months' imprisonment and a fine. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Restrictions and Measures Circulars

The Circulars introduce a complex set of restrictions, including weekday and weekend curfews, additional restrictions for persons over 65 years and under 20 years, travel restrictions, suspension of the operation of certain businesses, and other restrictions. Persons may travel in certain circumstances, provided that they obtain permission from the Travel Permit Boards. Officials may also determine the number of people who may enter crowded streets or squares, if necessary. 

Introduced 30 Nov 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Coronavirus Measures of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Letter No. E.48575

The order prohibits CSOs from conducting general assembly meetings online. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 9 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly

Type: order

Curfew Circular on Those 65 and Over and with Chronic Diseases

Turkey's Ministry of Interior restricted citizens over the age of 65, as well as the chronically ill, from leaving their residence. These citizens are prohibited from walking in public areas such as parks and roads, and may not travel by public transport. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 21 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Additional Circular on Coronavirus Measures to Provincial Governorships

The circular postpones all meetings and activities of civil society organizations that bring people physically together, including trainings, workshops, and general assembly meetings. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 16 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Association, Assembly

Type: order

Repression of Health Workers

The government has arrested, detained, and investigated doctors and other medical professionals for criticizing the official pandemic response. Trade associations representing health workers also report the repression of protests led by doctors related to COVID-19.

Introduced 29 Sep 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Expression

Type: practice

Proclamation of State of Emergency for the Management and Minimisation of the Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The government declared a State of Emergency in Tuvalu on account of COVID-19 and banned gatherings of more than 10 people.

Introduced 20 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Nationwide Lockdown

The presidential order declares a 14-day nationwide lockdown beginning April 1, to prevent further spread of the coronavirus. The order prohibits movement by private vehicles and imposes a curfew from 7pm until 6:30am as of March 31. All members of the public, except for individuals transporting cargo, are instructed to stay indoors. The order also prohibits gatherings of more than five people.

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

The Public Health (Control of COVID-19) Rules 2020

The presidential directive among other things prohibits educational, religious, and political gatherings including "rallies, conferences, elections" for 32 days.

See primary source or citation here

Introduced 18 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Widespread Arrests and Excessive Force in Implementation of Lockdown Measures

Following the government's issuance of lockdown measures to combat COVID-19, the Ugandan police have engaged in widespread arrests and excessive force in response to protest and gatherings. Police have used tear gas and fired ammunition at individuals peacefully protesting the economic impacts of the government's response to the pandemic, as well as the ineffectiveness of the government's response in preventing the virus's spread. Police also arrested 19 LGBTQI+ individuals, purportedly under charges of violating distancing measures, however the individuals were ultimately released and the case against them withdrawn after human rights groups argued that police were using pandemic restrictions to target a minority group. 

Introduced 31 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Discrimination

Type: practice

Resolution No. 211 on Prevention of the Spread of COVID-19

The government's resolution among other things prohibits individuals from remaining in public places without a facemask or a respirator; congregating in groups of more than two persons (except for exigencies of work and accompanying children); visiting parks, public gardens, and other outdoor areas (except for pets walking with one person and in case of emergency); and being on the streets without ID cards. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 3 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Resolution No. 38 on Penalties to Contain Coronavirus

The Attorney General's resolution stipulates fines for various violations of Cabinet Resolution No. 17 to contain the spread of Covid-19. The penalties include a fine of AED 10,000 ($2,700) for "organizing gatherings or meetings" or "being present in groups at public places or private farms," and a fine of AED 50,000 ($13,600) for failure to comply with quarantine instructions. The resolution provides that repeat violators will be referred to the public prosecutor.

قرار رقم 38 بشأن العقوبات المتعلقة بالحد من انتشار فيروس كورونا المستجد

 ÙŠÙ†Øµ قرار النائب العام على الغرامات المترتبة على المخالفات المختلفة لقرار مجلس الوزراء رقم 17 بشأن الحد من انتشار فيروس كورونا المستجد. تتضمن العقوبات غرامة قدرها 10,000 درهم (2,700 دولار أمريكي) على "تنظيم التجمعات أو الاجتماعات" أو "التواجد في مجموعات في الأماكن العامة أو المزارع الخاصة"ØŒ وغرامة قدرها 50,000 درهم (13,600 دولار أمريكي) لعدم الالتزام بتعليمات الحجر الصحي. ينص القرار على إحالة الأشخاص من ذوي المخالفات المتكررة إلى النائب العام.

Introduced 28 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: regulation

Coronavirus Act 2020

The Act gives UK authorities emergency powers to address the coronavirus pandemic, including the power to detain individuals deemed "potentially infectious" and put them in isolation facilities. Individuals who fail to comply may be subject to a £1,000 fine. The Act also enables the government to restrict public events and other gatherings to prevent or otherwise control the spread of coronavirus. Under the Act, surveillance warrants may be in place for up to twelve days before they must be reviewed by judicial authorities, up from the current three days. The Act must be renewed by parliament every six months.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Surveillance, Privacy, Movement

Type: law

Nationwide Stay-at-Home Order

Pubs, bars and restaurants are closed with exceptions for takeaway and delivery services. Residents are ordered to stay at home, with exceptions for education, for work that cannot be performed remotely, for exercise and outdoor recreation, for medical needs, for shopping, and for caring for vulnerable people. Non-essential shops are ordered to be closed. The measures are temporary and will end in early December. 

Introduced 31 Oct 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

States of Emergency in All 50 States

As of April 7, 2020, all 50 U.S. states have declared a "state of emergency" in response to COVID-19. 42 states have issued orders urging residents to stay at home. Several of the remaining states have stay at home orders in parts of the state. Washington State was the first to declare a state of emergency on March 2, 2020. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 7 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Measures to Contain the Spread of Coronavirus in Puerto Rico

The governor's executive order establishes a lockdown, requiring residents to stay in their homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week between March 31 and April 12, 2020. The order provides limited circumstances for leaving between 5am and 7pm. Under the order, "breaching, disrespecting, or disobeying" the curfew may be punished with up to 6 months in jail and a $5000 fine. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

Presidential Order

The Order introduces a series of measures, including the closing of public offices until April 12, except for essential services. In addition, public gatherings are suspended.

Introduced 23 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Access to Information

Type: order

Decision of the Special Republican Commission

The Decision establishes a strict self-isolation regime for Tashkent, Nukus, and regional centers. Persons older than 65 are prohibited from leaving their homes except to visit pharmacies or grocery stores. The decision also temporarily suspends the organization of private charitable events. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Movement

Type: order

State of Emergency Regulation Order No. 35 of 2020

The Regulation prohibits social gatherings of more than 5 people and "prohibits all media outlets to publish any articles on COVID-19, unless it has the respective authorization by the National Disaster Management Office after consultation with the Ministry of Health." Vanuatu had zero suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 when the Regulation went into force. 

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Press Freedom, Expression

Type: regulation

Municipal Health Emergency Decree DDA-003-2021

The Mayor of Pedro María Freites in Anzoátegui state declared a state of health emergency. The decree allows the Mayor to place restrictions on movement and gatherings. The state of health emergency will be in effect for 30 days, and may be extended. 

Introduced 9 Jun 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency, Movement

Type: order

Decree No. 4.161 Declaring a State of Alarm

The presidential decree declares a nationwide "state of alarm" for thirty days, renewable for one month at a time. Among other things, the decree prohibits public gatherings and authorizes the competent authorities to take "all necessary measures" to enforce orders related to quarantine and isolation. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Emergency

Type: order

Detention of Migrant Workers and Others Returning Home

Upon arriving home from other countries in Latin America, low-income Venezuelans,  including thousands of migrant workers, have been held under military guard in crowded "confinement centers" for weeks or months, with limited food, water, or masks. Some have been forced to take coronavirus tests and treated with unproven medications, including drugs identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the W.H.O. as having dangerous side effects. By contrast, wealthier Venezuelans arriving in the country can pay a fee to skip the confinement and continue home. The National Armed Forces have referred to those who try to evade the government's border controls as "trocheros" ("bioterrorists"), and encouraged Venezuelans to report them to authorities.

Introduced 19 Aug 2020

Issue(s): Discrimination, Movement, Militarization

Type: practice

Hanoi Lockdown Order

The government imposed a 15-day lockdown in the capital Hanoi and banned gatherings of more than two people in public. 

Introduced 24 Jul 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ho Chi Minh City Lockdown Order

Lockdown decree prohibts gatherings of more than two people and imposes a stay at home order. 

Introduced 9 Jul 2021 Extended through 1 October 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Directive 16/TT-TTg on Implementation of Urgent Measures for Prevention and Control of COVID-19

The directive requires people to self-isolate at home. Exceptions include buying food or medicine, working at factories or production facilities trading in essential services and goods, and other emergency cases. The directive also requires that people maintain an interpersonal distance of at least two meters, and not gather in groups of more than two people outside of the workplace, schools, hospitals, and businesses that are allowed to remain open. (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 1 Apr 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Ban on Gatherings

The Prime Minister ordered local authorities to ban public gatherings of more than 10 people. The order is effective from the 28 March 2020, with no specified end date.

Introduced 26 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

Public Health (Infected Areas) (Coronavirus Disease 2019) Regulations, No. 22 of 2020

The regulations among other things ban public gatherings of more than 5 people. They also provide that health officials may enter private premises without a warrant to "search for a case of Covid-19," and mandate that any individual suspected of having Covid-19 must be reported to health officials. The regulations provide that failure to comply with the regulations or a directive under the regulations shall be punished by a six-month prison sentence and a fine of 2,500 "penalty units." (See primary source or citation here)

Introduced 13 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Privacy

Type: regulation

Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) (Amendment) Order, 2021 (No. 16)

The Order amends the Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) Order, SI 200 of 2020 in respect to public gatherings. The Order caps gatherings at 50 persons, and sets a curfew between 22:00 hours and 05:30 hours on the following day. The Order also provides broad discretion to enforcement officers to accept/reject justifications for a person exempted from the regulations: proof "by any other means satisfactory to the enforcement officer."

Introduced 2 Mar 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) (Amendment) Order, 2021 (No. 13)

The Minister of Health and Child Care amended the curfew to begin at 20:00 hours and end at 05:30 hours on the following day. A Level IV lockdown was extended, with revised prohibitions of gatherings (maximum 30 people for funerals; and all gatherings for worship and for public hearings are suspended). 

Introduced 15 Feb 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) (Amendment) Order, 2021 (No. 9)

The Minister of Health reduced the number of people permitted to gather from 100 to "no more than 2 in any public place." The curfew was expanded to begin at 18:00hrs and end at 06:00hrs the following day. The country reverted to a Level IV National Lockdown. Gatherings are capped at 30 people for funerals, and there is a complete prohibition of worship and public hearings for 30 days.

Introduced 2 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

SI 2020-101 Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (Amendment) Order, 2020 (No. 6)

The prohibition on gatherings is extended by one month, and face mask requirements are heightened. 

Introduced 5 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly

Type: order

SI 2020-099 Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (Amendment) Order, 2020 (No. 5)

This order extends the nationwide lockdown for an additional two weeks.  The order also imposes additional restrictions on movement, including a requirement that individuals using public transport must be temperature-tested before boarding. 

Introduced 2 May 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Movement

Type: order

SI No. 83 of 2020 on Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) Order

The order imposes a national lockdown for 21 days and prohibits all public gatherings of more than 2 people, with very limited exceptions, on account of the coronavirus pandemic. Anyone who violates the lockdown can be punished with a Level 12 fine and one year's imprisonment. A person found further than 5km from his home may be arrested without a warrant and put in detention, isolation, or quarantine. Any person who publishes or communicates false news about any official involved with enforcing the national lockdown, or about any private individual with the effect of harming the state's enforcement of the lockdown, shall be liable to a penalty of up to a Level 14 fine or 20 years in prison or both.

SI 2020-110 Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (Amendment) Order, 2020 (No. 8) extends the national lockdown for an "indefinite" period subject to fortnightly review. 

Introduced 30 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Disinformation, Press Freedom, Expression, Access to Information, Movement

Type: order

SI No. 77 of 2020 Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) Regulations

Promulgated under the Public Health Act, the regulations among other things prohibit all gatherings of over 100 people for any purpose. Enforcement officers can arrest and detain those who refuse to comply. Enforcement officers can also order anyone reasonably suspected of infection to submit to a medical exam, which may include but not be limited to the taking of a bodily sample. The regulations provide for criminal sanctions in case of violation, up to one year's imprisonment and Level 12 fine. The regulations are in place until 20 May 2020 and can be extended for one month at a time.

Introduced 23 Mar 2020 Extended through 1 Jan 2021

Issue(s): Assembly, Privacy

Type: regulation

SI 2020-082 Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2020 (No. 1)

Under the amended regulations, the prohibition on gatherings is extended to any gathering of two or more people. The amendments also alter the regulations issued in relation to COVID to include as "enforcement officers" (previously police and municipal police) members of the military.

Introduced 23 Mar 2020

Issue(s): Assembly, Militarization

Type: regulation