Iraq: Activists plan nationwide protests Oct. 1

Event

Activists plan to demonstrate nationwide Oct. 1 to commemorate the third anniversary of the 2019 Iraqi anti-government protests and to demand justice for protesters killed during the movement. Organizers have announced gatherings at Nisour and Tahrir squares in Baghdad, and at Al Habobi Square in Nasiriyah. Additional rallies are likely at public squares in other cities across the country. Hundreds to thousands of individuals could attend the demonstrations.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the protest sites Oct. 1. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

Anti-government protests broke out across Iraq in October 2019, with activists denouncing high levels of unemployment, perceived corruption, poor provision of public services, and foreign interference. While the demonstrations prompted the resignation of then-Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi and the approval of a new election law aimed at giving politically independent candidates an improved chance of winning seats in parliament, related protests have continued into 2022. Security forces have fired live ammunition and tear gas at protesters, resulting in hundreds of casualties. The 2019 protests are generally considered to be Iraq's most significant bout of civil unrest since the ouster of former President Saddam Hussein in 2003.

Advice

Avoid all protests and rallies as a routine precaution. Heed the advice of security personnel. Leave the area immediately and take refuge in a secure, non-governmental building if violence erupts. Allow additional time to reach destinations near areas affected by protest activity.