Voices Under Pressure: November Overview of Protests and State Responses in Iraq

1.Executive Summary

Protests in Mosul Over Suspension of Building Permits in Hawi al-Kanis - 17/11/2025

On 17 November 2025, residents of Hay al-Kanisa in western Mosul protested to demand the resumption of construction activities, citing severe hardship due to the continued suspension of building permits. Demonstrators highlighted the lack of essential public services, including schools, water networks, and sewage systems. They also voiced frustration over what they described as selective enforcement of construction regulations, claiming that ordinary citizens are restricted while individuals with influence continue to build without hindrance.

Municipal authorities explained that the area is divided into zones with different land-use classifications. One zone is authorized for unrestricted residential construction, while another is designated for green and recreational spaces, where construction is legally limited to tourism-related purposes. Officials stated that approximately 1,500 housing units built before 2014 are under review according to Resolution 320, and building permits cannot be issued for undeveloped land outside the designated residential zone unless new legislation authorizes expansion. The municipality reaffirmed that existing structures in non-residential areas constitute legal violations and emphasized adherence to approved urban plans.

Mosul – Hay al-Kanisa Protest (Construction & Services)

Baghdad: Drivers Protest Traffic Fines and Camera Surveillance – 18/11/2025

Drivers in Baghdad staged protests against increased traffic fines and the expanded use of automated camera surveillance. Protesters argued that the fines are excessive and disproportionately impact low-income drivers. They also claimed that several cameras are malfunctioning or inaccurately recording violations, resulting in what they described as unjust penalties.

During the demonstration, drivers aired their concerns on the program “Issues with Khamael Al-Kateb”, criticizing the lack of transparency in fine calculations and the absence of a mechanism to contest erroneous violations. Protesters called on the Ministry of Interior and the Traffic Directorate to revise the fine structure, audit malfunctioning cameras, and establish an accessible appeals process. Participants stated they would continue their demonstrations until fair and accurate enforcement mechanisms are ensured.

Baghdad – Protest Against Traffic Fines & Cameras

Dhi Qar: Protests Over Delayed Professional Allowances and Land Distribution – 18/11/2025

Despite the Ministry of Finance’s decision to withdraw its appeal against an amendment to the Education Law—which includes increasing professional allowances to 300,000 IQD and recognizing lecturers’ free service years—educational staff in Dhi Qar held protests on Imam Ali Street in central Nasiriyah.

Protesters stated that their rights remain unaddressed: the allowances have not been disbursed, and government-approved land plots for educational staff have not been distributed. They affirmed that demonstrations will continue until all entitlements are released and the promised land allocations are implemented.

Dhi Qar – Teachers Protest (Allowances & Land Plots)

Kirkuk: Protest Withdrawn After Ministry Drops Appeal Against Education Law– 19/11/2025

The Kirkuk Teachers’ Syndicate canceled its scheduled protest after the Ministry of Finance officially withdrew its appeal against Article (4/Third) of the First Amendment to the Ministry of Education Law No. (22) of 2011. The appeal involved raising teachers’ professional allowances from 150,000 IQD to 300,000 IQD, recognizing volunteer service for lecturers in retirement calculations, and reducing mandatory service periods in rural areas.

The decision generated widespread relief among teachers. Syndicate head Hassan al-Jubouri congratulated staff and instructed that their entitlements be processed in accordance with the updated Education Law.

Kirkuk – Teachers’ Syndicate Announcement (Canceled Protest)

Deadly Protest Outside Lanaz Refinery Over Employment Demands – 29/11/2025

Erbil: At least two people were killed and three others wounded when Kurdish security forces opened fire during a protest outside the Lanaz refinery, located on the road leading to Erbil. Demonstrators had gathered to demand job opportunities within the refinery.

Security personnel guarding the site reportedly opened fire as tensions escalated. The incident resulted in the deaths of one protester and a truck driver transporting petroleum products. The event has raised concerns about the use of excessive force and the handling of employment-related grievances in the energy sector.

2. Key Events and Locations

3.Notable Incidents

Deadly Use of Force in Erbil (29 November 2025):

A protest outside the Lanaz refinery escalated when Kurdish security forces opened fire on demonstrators demanding employment opportunities. The incident resulted in two fatalities—a protester and a truck driver—and three additional injuries.

Heightened Tension in Mosul (17 November 2025):

The protests in Hawi al-Kanisa exposed growing public frustration with the slow pace of reconstruction and the perceived inconsistency in how municipal planning regulations are enforced. Residents argued that the sudden suspension of building permits—without providing alternatives or clear timelines—demonstrated a wider governance gap and deepened mistrust toward local authorities. The incident highlighted long-standing grievances related to unequal service delivery, bureaucratic delays, and the continued impact of post-ISIS recovery challenges on daily life in Mosul.

4. Impact and Implications

Impact on Community Stability:

Frustration across multiple governorates; fatal incident risks further tension.

Impact on Government Relations:

Withdrawal of appeal improved relations in Kirkuk; mistrust persists elsewhere.

Impact on Humanitarian Operations:

Instability may delay reconstruction; security reviews needed near high-risk sites.

Kurdistan Organization for Human Right Watch

www.KOHRW.org

Email: Reports@kohrw.org