Iraq: Protests likely to continue in major cities through at least early April

Event

Additional protests are likely across Iraq, particularly in Baghdad, Nasiriyah, Diwaniyah, and Basra, through at least early April. Thousands of people have been protesting in recent days over the potential amendments to the electoral law. Activists marched towards the Green Zone in Baghdad on March 25. In Nasiriyah and other southern cities, protesters burned tires and blocked roads.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture in prominent protest areas, including outside the Parliament, provincial government headquarters, and public squares, until the situation stabilizes. Localized transport disruptions are likely near gathering sites for the duration of the demonstrations. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if protesters are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

Protests against amendments to the Provincial Council Elections Law have been occurring since late February. Indepedent candidates allege that these amendments would benefit larger parties and hurt their chances of winning seats. Critics further maintain that the changes would enable major political parties to gain power in provincial councils at the expense of the independent politicians who emerged following the nationwide demonstraitons in 2019-2020. The amendent also adopts the Sainte-Lague method, which is an apportionment method for allocationg seats based on a party-list proportional representation system.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to possible clashes. Exercise caution near gatherings. Immediately leave the area and shelter in a secure, nongovernment building if violence erupts. Monitor local media for details concerning protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Ensure sufficient time to travel in the affected areas. Confirm the availability of transportation; allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Follow all police instructions. Do not attempt to photograph or take a video of demonstrations. Always carry proper identification; be polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint or questioned by police.