Kazakhstan: Anti-government protests planned nationwide July 17

Event

Anti-government activists have called for protests around the country July 17 to denounce mandatory mass COVID-19 vaccinations. Participants intend to gather from 12:00 outside local government headquarters (Akimats) nationwide. If they proceed, attendance at each event could reach the low hundreds, though is likely to be highest in Nur Sultan.

Measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 place severe restrictions of public gatherings and it is highly unlikely that any protests will receive official authorization. Security forces will likely deploy in the vicinity of any potential protest venues and move swiftly to disperse any unauthorized gatherings; police will disperse even authorized gatherings if they become disruptive or if they breach agreed parameters on attendance, timings, or location. Officers will not hesitate to use force if resisted. Increased security measures around regional headquarters could prompt localized transport disruptions on the afternoon of July 17. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted in any violence, they would face a significant incidental threat.

Advice

Exercise caution near local government headquarters July 17 and avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for clashes. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of a confrontation. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities.