Iraq: Three protests held in Dhi Qar province August 31

Event

Three separate demonstrations were held in Dhi Qar province on Monday, August 31. In Nasiriyah, dozens of university graduates gathered outside the Dhi Qar Oil Company to demand employment opportunities. The graduates reportedly set tires on fire at the main gate of the oil company. A separate demonstration was reported in Nasiriyah outside the Electricity Department, where workers were protesting against the delay of their monthly salaries. In Rifai dozens of temporary workers held a demonstration outside the municipal department to demand wage increases and the cancelation of an electronic payment system. There have been no reports of significant violence or disruption associated with any of the protests.

Further protests are likely over a range of issues in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport are possible in the vicinity of demonstrations.

Advice

Those in Dhi Qar province are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings, anticipate disruptions to transportation and services in areas affected by demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.