Iran: Retirees plan nationwide protests Jan. 26

Event

Retirees plan to demonstrate nationwide from 1030 Jan. 26, to demand higher pensions and improved healthcare services. Protesters claim that the current pension amount is insufficient to cover the rising cost of living. Organizers have announced that the main protest will be outside the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare in Tehran. Associated demonstrations will also likely occur outside social security organizations nationwide. The demonstrations are likely to be well attended; thousands of individuals participated in the previous protests Jan. 10.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near protest sites the morning of Jan. 26, especially along Azadi Street in Tehran. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the affected areas, Jan. 26.