[Yasa]

Wikipedia (oh noes!) defines a riot as;

Originally Posted by Wikipedia

A riot is a form of civil disorder characterized often by what is thought of as disorganized groups lashing out in a sudden and intense rash of violence against authority, property or people. While individuals may attempt to lead or control a riot, riots are thought to be typically chaotic and exhibit herd behaviour, and usually generated by civil unrest.

Google dictionary defines it as;

Originally Posted by Google

Verb: Take part in a violent public disturbance: "students rioted in Paris"; "a night of rioting".

Noun: A violent disturbance of the peace by a crowd: "riots broke out in the capital".

Websters defines it as;

Originally Posted by Websters

a : public violence, tumult, or disorder
b : a violent public disorder; specifically : a tumultuous disturbance of the public peace by three or more persons assembled together and acting with a common intent

A protest is defined as;

Originally Posted by Wikipedia

A protest is an expression of objection, by words or by actions, to particular events, policies or situations. Protests can take many different forms, from individual statements to mass demonstrations. Protesters may organize a protest as a way of publicly making their opinions heard in an attempt to influence public opinion or government policy, or they may undertake direct action in an attempt to directly enact desired changes themselves.

Google defines it as;

Originally Posted by Google

Noun: A statement or action expressing disapproval of or objection to something.

Websters defines it as;

Originally Posted by Websters

1: a solemn declaration of opinion and usually of dissent: as a : a sworn declaration that payment of a note or bill has been refused and that all responsible signers or debtors are liable for resulting loss or damage b : a declaration made especially before or while paying that a tax is illegal and that payment is not voluntary


2: the act of objecting or a gesture of disapproval <resigned in protest>; especially : a usually organized public demonstration of disapproval

So it looks as if the common definition for riot is an act involving violence. It seems as if these protests did not have any violence prior to police intervention. So, no I wouldn't have classified these as riots during the flash bang incident.