Russia: Banned pension demonstration in St. Petersburg Sep. 16

Event

Opposition groups will hold a protest at Lenin Square in St. Petersburg on Sunday, September 16, despite Russian authorities having prohibited gatherings in the area. The demonstration will take place at 13:00 (local time) and aims to contest proposed pension reforms. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near the demonstration site. Clashes between security forces and protesters, as well as arrests of demonstrators, cannot be ruled out.

Context

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 proposed pension reform has sparked protests throughout the country. On September 9, protests held nationwide led to the arrests of more than 800 people.

Advice

Individuals in Russia 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.