Iraq: Protesters gather in Basra November 19

Event

Approximately 100 employees held a demonstration at the entrances to Burjisiya on Thursday morning, November 19, to protest the employment of foreign workers. Local sources indicate that having had no positive response from protests outside the Basra Oil Company (BOC) offices in Basra, the protesters moved to block the entrance to Burjisiya's Well 20 to prevent workers from entering the site. Local media reported this as a protest escalation.

Separately, Ministry of Industry and Minerals contractors reportedly held a demonstration inside the headquarters of Ibn Majed Company in southern Basra to denounce the non-payment of their monthly salaries. Protesters also demanded their transfer to ministerial contracts in accordance with resolution 315.

Additional associated demonstrations are possible in Basra in the coming days. While protests may not be particularly well-attended, localized transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are possible in the vicinity of all demonstrations. 

Advice

Those in the area are advised to monitor developments, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.