Lebanon: Unionized workers to hold nationwide strike and protests Dec. 16

Event

Members of the General Confederation of Lebanese Workers (CGTL), an umbrella organization that includes 43 unions and federations, plan to strike and demonstrate nationwide Dec. 16. The purpose of the labor action is to protest the government's decision to reduce subsidies on essential goods, including food, fuel, and medicine, and demand the formation of a new government capable of implementing economic reforms. The CGTL has an estimated membership of 200,000 workers across the public and private sectors; the strike and associated demonstrations are likely to be well-attended.

Likely gathering sites include public squares, government buildings, and city centers. In Beirut, protests are likely to materialize on Martyr's Square, Riad el-Solh Road, and near the government palace. Demonstrators may burn tires and barricade main roadways during protests, prompting ground travel disruptions and commercial disruptions. Security forces will almost certainly deploy to monitor and respond to all demonstrations and roadblocks. Clashes between security forces and protesters are likely if protesters ignore police orders or are overly disruptive.

Context

The call for a general strike and associated protests came amid ongoing nationwide anti-government demonstrations. Lebanese political parties have failed to form a new government after the major explosion at the Port of Beirut Aug. 4. The ongoing political deadlock has further delayed long-awaited reforms and exacerbated the country's political and economic crisis. Worsening unemployment, currency devaluation, and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has further compounded Lebanon's problems, increasing the potential for civil unrest. Nationwide demonstrations and strikes to condemn government corruption and economic mismanagement began in October 2019. Absent significant reforms that unlock international financial assistance and address protesters' demands, conditions will only continue to deteriorate, and anti-government demonstrations will likely persist.

Advice

Liaise with trusted contacts regarding protest sites, and maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for localized clashes or other security incidents. Allow significant extra time to reach destinations in city centers in Lebanon Dec. 16. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for authorities to remove them. Be alert for residual debris and sharp objects if driving on previously blocked roads. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Reconfirm business appointments.