Iraq: Civil servant strikes and protests are likely to persist through mid-December in Sulaymaniyah /update 1

Civil servant strikes and protests over unpaid salaries are likely to persist through at least mid-December in Sulaymaniyah Governorate. The local government has reportedly failed to pay salaries since October. Strike organizers indicated on Dec. 15 that the strike was indefinite and that a major protest was being planned for Dec. 18. Various sectors are impacted by the strike including health, traffic, electricity, and education.

Disruptions to the operations of several local government departments are likely, which could impact road travel, health, education, and electricity provision. Related protests are likely to persist and may escalate if salaries are left unpaid. Likely gathering locations include town centers, government buildings, and places of work. Security personnel are likely to deploy to all protest areas. Confrontations between striking and protesting workers and the security forces are possible.