Pakistan: Students protests likely to continue through late January

Event

Students are likely to continue protests across Pakistan through late January, demanding that universities hold online examinations. Participants are denouncing public and private universities’ decision to hold on-campus examinations amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Students recently held protests in several cities, including Islamabad and Lahore, where they blocked roadways and marched to government buildings. Protesters plan to gather at Lahore Press Club in Lahore 1200 Jan. 22. Additional protests in multiple cities are likely in the coming days. Popular protest sites include press clubs, government buildings, and public squares. Dozens to a few hundred people will probably participate in rallies.

Security personnel will likely monitor protests and may try to break up more disruptive gatherings. While previous demonstrations have not resulted in violence, skirmishes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. Students may block or march along roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out nearby, leave the area. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near protests.