Russia: Opposition leader calls for nationwide protests September 9 /update 1

Event

On August 7, political opposition leader Alexei Navalny called for nationwide protests on September 9. The mass demonstrations are being organized to protest a recently proposed pension reform. Regional elections are also scheduled to take place the same day. As of Saturday, August 11, specific details regarding potential demonstrations have not been released. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near demonstration sites.

Context

Thousands of people across Russia participated in protests over pension reform on July 28, denouncing government plans to raise the age at which citizens can begin collecting pension funds. Around 12,000 people reportedly protested against the proposal in Moscow.

Russian government officials have proposed raising the pension age from 55 to 63 for women and from 60 to 65 for men to help offset the economic effects of an aging population and a smaller workforce. The State Duma (lower house of parliament) passed the pension reform bill on July 19.

Advice

Individuals in Russia, particularly in Moscow, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.