Russia: Ingushetia protests continue as of mid-October /update 2

Event

Peaceful protests - denouncing a Chechnya-Ingushetia deal that would redefine internal borders - are ongoing in front of the parliamentary building in the Ingush capital of Magas as of mid-October, with no indication of when protesters may disperse. Sit-ins have been ongoing for several weeks, sometimes drawing thousands of demonstrators. According to local sources, the demonstrations have so far remained peaceful. Nevertheless, a heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated near protest sites around the parliamentary building in the coming days.

Context

Protests initially broke out after the heads of Ingushetia and Chechnya approved a border deal on September 26. Demonstrators in Ingushetia believe the agreement to be in favor of Chechnya at the expense of their region. Allegations of a rigged parliamentary vote on October 4 have further fueled the protests. Protesters demand a referendum on the border issue and the resignation of the chief executive of Ingushetia.

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 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.