In Iraq, almost 550 people have been killed since the beginning of protests critical of the government four months ago. This was announced on Friday by the Human Rights Commission elected by the Iraqi Parliament. Among the dead were 17 security forces, while all other victims were demonstrators or activists. 276 of them were killed in the capital Baghdad alone.

More than 2,700 people were arrested, 328 of them are still in prison. In addition, 72 Iraqis have disappeared without trace, their fate is unknown.

Since the beginning of October, the Iraqi government has not published any statistics on fatalities, injuries or arrests in connection with the demonstrations. According to doctors, about 30,000 people have been injured since the protests began. Many victims have been injured or killed by gunfire.

The Iraqi protest movement accuses both the security forces and armed groups and the military wings of political parties of using force against demonstrators. The United Nations blames unnamed militias for much of the killing, abduction and threats associated with the protests. The Iraqi Government denies that security forces are shooting at demonstrations.

Since 1 October, there have been protests throughout Iraq against the political elite, mismanagement, corruption and high unemployment. Prime Minister Adel Abd al-Mahdi resigned at the end of November but remained in office temporarily until last Saturday. A week ago, former Communications Minister Mohammed Tawfiq Allawi was designated as the Prime Minister. He has promised to protect the demonstrators.

The Iraqi parliament will probably vote on Allawi's candidacy at its next session. After that he has 30 days to form a government.