Kazakhstan: As of April 12, further protests by striking oil workers are possible in Zhanaozen and Astana in the coming days

Event

Further protests and strikes led by oil workers are possible in Astana and Zhanaozen in the coming days after workers protesting their recent dismissal from a Zhanaozen-based oil company were detained in Astana on April 11; most workers were reportedly released early April 12, provided they immediately returned to Zhanaozen. Likely future protest locations include the Ministry of Energy building and KazMunayGaz offices on Qabanbay Batyr Avenue in Astana, as well as central squares and government buildings in Zhanaozen, such as Los Andzheles roundabout and the regional government office (akimat) on Satpaev Street.

Security forces will likely move quickly to contain and disperse any related gatherings. Any security measures will likely prompt localized business and travel disruptions. Additionally, authorities may restrict local internet and telecommunications services during police action to quell protests, even those with limited attendance. Related gatherings are unlikely to secure government approval, and police are known to conduct mass arrests at unsanctioned gatherings, particularly those that take on an anti-government nature. Bystanders would face an incidental risk of being arrested if seen near any such protest.

Context

On April 10-11, around 150 oil workers recently dismissed from the Zhanaozen-based Berali Mangistau Company protested outside the Energy Ministry in Astana to demand permanent employment; police arrested the group on April 11 after they refused to disperse. Their arrest prompted around 2,000 oil workers and activists to gather outside the akimat in Zhanaozen late April 11 to demand the release of the arrested protesters. Other workers staged marches in both Zhanaozen and Aktau. Oil workers in the Mangystau Province surrounding Aktau and Zhanaozen also observed strike action at several oil companies on April 11, including Ozenmunaigas JSC, Ozenmunaiservice LLP, and Burgylau LLP. A small group of protesters also blocked an unspecified major road in Zhanaozen early April 12. In Astana, authorities have implemented increased security measures around the Energy Ministry and oil company offices, including those of KazMunayGaz.

Advice

Avoid all protests in Kazakhstan as a standard precaution. If violence breaks out, immediately leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Prepare for further telecommunications disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and security forces.