Haiti: Nationwide Labor Day protests May 1

Event

Textile unions held nationwide protests in Haiti on Wednesday, May 1 to demand an increase in minimum wage as well as the reinstatement of dismissed workers. Protesters reportedly gathered in the cities of Ouanaminthe, Cap-Haitien, and Port-au-Prince. No casualties or damages were reported during the protests.

Further protests, including those related to the PetroCaribe scandal and ongoing fuel shortages are likely in Haiti over the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence and widespread traffic disruptions are likely near any demonstrations

Context

Labor Day protests on May 1 took place amid several months of political and social tensions in Haiti. Protesters have staged numerous demonstrations in recent months to call for greater government transparency after several public officials, including President Jovenel Moïse, were implicated in a scandal related to the alleged misuse of PetroCaribe funds.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments (e.g. travel restrictions). Be prepared to shelter in place in the event of prolonged civil unrest (e.g. stockpile supplies of preserved foods and fresh water).