04 Dec 2018 | 10:12 AM UTC
Réunion: Situation stabilizing December 4 /update 16
Situation stabilizing throughout Réunion as of December 4; remain vigilant
Event
As of Tuesday, December 4, tensions have somewhat eased across Réunion, following over two weeks of protests associated with the "yellow vest" ("gilets jaunes") movement. Roadblocks have been lifted throughout the island but a significant police deployment remains in place. However the situation remains tense at Port Est where unrest occurred on December 3 between protesters and security forces.
Furthermore, the nightly closures at Roland Garros International Airport (RUN) - from 16:00 to 05:00 - have been lifted as of Tuesday, allowing normal air services to resume.
Context
Demonstrations denouncing rising fuel prices and a planned fuel tax began on November 17 throughout France, with demonstrators in Réunion setting up roadblocks, setting fire to buildings, and ransacking shops. The government plans for the tax increase to come into effect on January 1, 2019, to promote environmentally friendly practices.
Advice
Individuals in Réunion are advised to monitor developments to the situation, adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid all protests.
