I mentioned in my How to Survive Mobile World Congress guide that the conference often draws protestors, since it’s such a high-profile event and we’re all capitalist scum.
Still, despite being an experienced attendee, I was quite taken aback at the sight that greeted us when we finally left the conference last night.
Armed police had surrounded the exit, and – just a few yards away – hundreds of protestors booed and jeered as we emerged. Many of them wore scarves over their faces, and some had V for Vendetta-style masks. It was more than a little intimidating, but hey - I guess that was the point.
Dozens of police vehicles had blocked off the surrounding roads, and the protestors temporarily blocked the entrance to the Metro. One ballsy Swedish attendee tried to make his way through, but retreated when he was met by half a dozen hooded thugs.
So what was it all about? Well, depending who you ask, it was either an anti-capitalism demonstration or a protest against the recent increase in Metro fares.
To her credit, Wendy got in the thick of the action (don’t worry, she covered the London riots) and managed to put together a lovely little video. Check it out on YouTube.
