26 Sep 2018 | 02:02 PM UTC
Russia: Controversial pension reform adopted Sep. 26 /update 1
Russian Parliament adopts controversial pension reform raising retirement age on September 26; protests expected
Event
The Russian Parliament adopted controversial pension reforms on Wednesday, September 26, raising the retirement age from 55 to 60 for women and 60 to 65 for men. Protesters have gathered in front of the Douma, the Russian Parliament's Lower House, in Moscow, to protest the decision. Further demonstrations and associated disruptions are expected.
Context
The pension reform was announced in June by Prime Minister Dimitri Medvedev and sparked a wave of 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 any instructions issued by the local authorities.
