Gabon: Indefinite strike announced in Port-Gentil from June 12

Event

An umbrella group of unions has called for an indefinite strike in Port-Gentil starting from Monday, June 12. Protesters are denouncing the high cost of living, as well as the increase in taxes, oil products, gas, and water prices. The protests led to disruption of the transportation system on June 12, as a large number of taxi drivers followed the strike. However, shops, schools, and administration buildings have reportedly remained open. A spokesperson for the inter-union movement has said that they intend to extend the strike to the oil sector. Further strike action should be expected over coming weeks.

Context

Numerous protests have taken place in Gabon over the past months, mostly over socioeconomic issues and to denounce government austerity policies. In May, the "Dynamic Unity" (Dynamique unitaire) union called for weekly strikes in the public and private sectors.

The country's economy has suffered from the drop in oil prices, on which most of the country's revenues are dependent. Port-Gentil, the economic capital where oil activities are concentrated, has been especially hard-hit. 

Advice

Individuals present in Gabon are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to avoid any related protests due to the possibility of violence and the potential involvement of security forces to disperse crowds.