Mongolia: Further anti-government protests planned in Ulanbaatar through Jan. 22 /update 1

Opposition parties led by the Liberte Party have called for further protests at Sukhbaatar Square in Ulaanbaatar through Jan. 22. Activists are denouncing the ruling coalition over several issues pertaining to economic, environmental, and traffic management policies. On Jan. 11, around 1,000 people participated in a related demonstration at Sukhbaatar Square, resulting in traffic disruptions along Genghis Avenue and the cancellation of several bus routes.

Attendees may march to nearby key government buildings in the vicinity, such as Government Palace, as well as residences and offices of the president and prime minister. Additional gatherings, including counterprotests by pro-government groups, may also occur at nearby public squares, parks, and thoroughfares. Anti-government rallies in recent years have seen high turnouts of several thousand people and sporadic altercations between activists and police.

Authorities will likely heighten security in Ulanbaatar ahead of possible demonstrations through Jan. 22. Checkpoints at entry points of Ulanbaatar, vehicle and personnel checks, gathering bans, and localized public movement restrictions in key areas are possible. Clashes may occur, especially if protesters attempt to breach security cordons, defy any official bans, or confront rival groups. Violence could also break out if police attempt to carry out mass arrests. Temporary road closures, curtailment of public transport services, and diversions are likely to affect access roads to the main rally site. Increased congestion on roadways and public buses is probable as attendees arrive at and leave the venue. Localized business closures may occur.