Haiti: Strikes and protests to resume June 12

Event

Multiple trade unions have called for their protest movement to resume on Monday, June 12. The movement had been suspended since Tuesday, June 6, to facilitate negotiations with the government. However, a recent unpopular appointment by President Jovenel Moïse to the National Salaries Council (CSS) has angered the unions and led them to resume their protests. Demonstrations are to be anticipated throughout the country, particularly in the capital Port-au-Prince. As with all protests in Haiti, clashes and other violence is possible. Strikes are also possible.

The workers are demanding a rise in the daily minimum wage to 800 gourdes (approximately USD 12) from the current 300 gourdes (approximately USD 4.5). A related general strike was held on May 26, followed by several days of street protests.

Context

Sociopolitical tensions have been high across the country in recent years, due to a long-standing political crisis, high levels of poverty and high costs of living, and the government’s inability to effectively respond to successive crises, including the 2010 earthquake, the subsequent cholera epidemic, and 2016’s devastating Hurricane Matthew. Protests, outbreaks of violence, and roadblocks have become common occurrences.

Advice

Individuals are advised to monitor the situation, to strictly avoid all protests and rallies due to the high likelihood of violence, and to adhere to advice and instructions issued by the local authorities and/or their home governments. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics and to keep abreast of the sociopolitical climate via media reporting.