03 Jul 2018 | 12:21 PM UTC
Kazakhstan: Nationwide protests June 23
Anti-government protests planned nationwide on June 23; avoid all demonstrations
Event
Nationwide anti-government protests are planned for Saturday, June 23. The largest are likely to be held in the cities of Almaty, Astana, and Karagandy. Authorities began to threaten activists and journalists on Tuesday, June 19, warning them not to take part.
Context
The protests are being organized by the banned opposition party Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DVK) to demand free education for all, more scholarships, and higher pay for teachers and police officers.
Kazakhstan's law on public assembly is highly restrictive and effectively denies citizens the right to protest. Nevertheless, mass protest in the country do occur occasionally. In May 2016, dozens of individuals were arrested during protests held to denounce amendments to property laws.
Advice
Individuals present in Kazakhstan's main cities are advised to exercise caution and to avoid all demonstrations as violence may flare up without warning. Follow all instructions as issued by authorities and monitor developments to the situation.
