17th day of protest

Clashes erupt between police and job-seeking protesters outside Basra Council

2024-09-16 | 16:14

BASRA — Security forces in Basra used force to disperse a protest outside the Basra Provincial Council, now in its 17th day, where demonstrators have been demanding job opportunities. A widely circulated video captured clashes between protesters and police, with officers using batons, physical force, and displaying rifles to break up the demonstration.

Mohammed Al-Anzi, a protester representative, condemned the violence. “We denounce the use of violence against unarmed protesters. We have been sitting on the ground, both women and men, peacefully for 17 days outside the provincial council without any official listening to us,” Al-Anzi told 964media. “It is shameful to be attacked and humiliated in front of everyone. We demand immediate government intervention and accountability for those responsible for these violations.”

Fatima Hussein, another protester, expressed her frustration, stating, “Unfortunately, we are being assaulted by security forces for staging a peaceful sit-in outside the provincial council building. It is disgraceful for a Basra citizen to be beaten in this way. We are protesting for our basic right to have job opportunities.”

The protest, which began more than two weeks ago, has drawn increasing numbers of demonstrators calling for employment and improved living conditions in Basra, a city grappling with economic challenges despite its significant role in Iraq’s oil exports.

Basra, with a population of over 4 million, faces an unemployment rate of 21.8%, well above the national average of 16.5%, according to the United Nations Global Marketplace. The city also struggles with high poverty levels, despite its oil wealth.

In June, unemployed petroleum engineers in Basra held protests demanding job opportunities, highlighting the region’s ongoing economic challenges.

Ali Mohammed Sabih, Director of Planning for Basra Governorate, told Al-Mirbad Radio that Basra ranks ninth or tenth in the country for poverty, with a rate of 15%, based on the 2021 Labor Force Survey.