LIVE: Anti-COVID-restrix protesters take to Hamburg streets despite ban, counter-demos ongoing

Ruptly is live from Hamburg on Saturday, January 15, as demonstrators take to the streets in protest of COVID-19 restrictions put in place by the German government, despite a court upholding its ban by the authorities. A counter-demonstration by left-wing and climate protection groups, which is currently not banned, is taking place in the city on the same day. According to police, a protest held the Saturday prior was the largest COVID-related demonstration in Hamburg to date, with 13,700 attending. Earlier this month, Germany’s federal and state governments decided to introduce new measures to combat coronavirus, including implementing stricter rules to enter bars and restaurants. The new ’2G plus’ rule means that people must be fully vaccinated or recovered, and also show a recent negative COVID-19 test, in order to enter bars and restaurants. Those who have received their booster shots are exempt from presenting the same-day negative test for the time being. ​ Music during the live may be subject to co