19 Sep 2018 | 11:16 PM UTC
Russia: Demonstration in Yekaterinburg on September 22
Opposition groups to hold a demonstration in Yekaterinburg over pension reforms on September 22
Event
Opposition groups and civil society associations have called for a demonstration to take place in Yekaterinburg on Saturday, September 22, to protest proposed pension reforms. The demonstration will take place at 12:00 (local time) around Bolshakov Park. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near the demonstration site.
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 Yekaterinburg 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.