Haiti: Tensions remain high in Port-au-Prince July 10 /update 3

Event

Tensions remain high in Port-au-Prince as of Tuesday, July 10, following a two-day general strike. Many of the roadblocks erected during the recent violent protests were removed between July 9 and 10 and the situation has started to calm. However, the US Embassy has reportedly begun voluntary evacuations of non-essential personnel from the country on Tuesday. Local sources also reported that additional protests are planned in the coming days, with preparations apparently underway for further roadblocks. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Violent protests broke out in recent days, leaving at least four people dead. The violence erupted in response to now-scrapped plans by the Haitian government to raise the prices of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene by up to 50 percent; the situation escalated as protesters called for the immediate departure of President Jovenel Moïse.

All protests in Haiti, even smaller ones, have the potential to disrupt daily life as they often involve roadblocks and/or violence. Further protests and affiliated violence to denounce the now-canceled increase in fuel prices and demand the president's resignation are possible in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in Port-au-Prince and elsewhere across Haiti are advised to monitor the situation and strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence. Confirm flight reservations before traveling to the airport and contact your airline for more information. Monitor updates from your respective embassy for possible adjustments to operating hours.