Ukraine: Rallies outside parliament in Kyiv through November 7 /update 3

Event

Anti-corruption demonstrators announced their intent to continue their sit-in at Constitution Square outside the National Parliament through at least November 7. The announcement was made on October 22 at a rally of several hundred people on the square, led by former Georgian president and governor of Odessa Mikhail Saakashvili. Demonstrators reportedly briefly clashed will police after officers stopped a vehicle carrying audio equipment for the rally from entering the square; no injuries were reported. According to local media, the demonstrators have erected around 30 large tents on the square and in Marinsky Park. An enhanced security presence and transportation disruptions around parliament should be expected through November 7.

Context

At least three protesters and one police officer were injured in clashes between anti-corruption protesters and police on October 17. Approximately 6000 protesters gathered outside of parliament, demanding that President Petro Poroshenko resign from office, that the government create anti-corruption courts, and that steps be taken to impose limits to parliamentary immunity. Demonstrators proceeded to erect a number of tents during the protests and have occupied Constitution Square since that time.

The protests are being led by Mikhail Saakashvili and his United National Movement political party. Saakashvili is an ardent critic of corruption in Ukraine and has called for sweeping political reforms.

Advice

Individuals in Kyiv are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, to obey any instructions issued by the local authorities, and to anticipate increased travel times due to traffic congestion and increased security measures. Due to the underlying terrorist threat amid the ongoing high sociopolitical tensions, be alert to and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the local authorities or your security officer.