Iraq: Graduates protest in Baghdad September 14

Event

University graduates held two protests in Baghdad on Monday, September 14, over a lack of employment opportunities. Dozens of graduates gathered near the Baghdad Fair Roundabout in Mansour district, with traffic disruptions reported in the vicinity of the demonstration. Dozens of other graduates staged a sit-in protest outside the main gate of the Ministry of Health in the Bab Al-Muadham area of Rusafa district.

Further protests over the issue are possible in Baghdad over the near term. A heightened security presence and localized transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any demonstrations.

Advice

Those in Baghdad are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings, anticipate disruptions to transportation and services in areas affected by demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.