Iraq: Anti-corruption protest planned in Baghdad May 19

Event

Muqtada al-Sadr, an influential Shi'ite cleric, has called for his supporters to hold an anti-corruption protest in Baghdad on Friday, May 19. Participants are expected to gather in Tahrir Square at 17:00 (local time). Expect increased security measures and localized traffic disruptions.

Context

Muqtada al-Sadr regularly calls for protests in Baghdad, demanding the government reform the electoral commission ahead of the 2018 elections. Since early 2016, demonstrators have protested the lack of social reforms and pressured the prime minister to replace the incumbent government by a cabinet of technocrats.

Protests in February 2017 developed into violent clashes, leaving five dead and dozens wounded.

Advice

Individuals in Baghdad are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid all protests. Generally speaking, the security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.