Russia: Further protests expected in Ingushetia over land swap deal

Event

Protesters gathered in front of the parliamentary building in the Ingush capital of Magas on Thursday, October 4, to contest a controversial land swap deal between Chechnya and Ingushetia. The regional parliament had approved the agreement earlier that day, through a vote believed by certain observers to be rigged.

Further demonstrations are expected in the comping days, along with associated traffic disruptions.

Context

Protests initially broke out after the border deal was approved by the heads of Ingushetia and Chechnya on September 26. Demonstrators in Ingushetia believe the agreement to be in favor of Chechnya at the expense of their own region. Allegations of a rigged parliamentary vote have further fueled the protests.

Chechnya and Ingushetia were part of the Chechen-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic during the Soviet Union era. Territorial tensions erupted as the regions split in 1992.

Advice

Individuals in Ingushetia, and Russia more generally, 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.