17 Sep 2021 | 01:25 PM UTC
New Caledonia: Activists plan to protest outside the Department of Health and Social Affairs in Noumea, Sept. 20
Activists to rally at Departement of Health and Social Affairs in Noumea, New Caledonia, from 10:30 Sept. 20. Increased security likely.
Event
Activists plan to protest outside the Department of Health and Social Affairs in Noumea, Sept. 20, against a proposed vaccination requirement for workers and other grievances. Protesters intend to gather from 10:30 and end the demonstration by 13:00. The government has banned the demonstration to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, many supporters are likely to continue with the gathering, and dozens to a few hundred people could join the demonstration.
Authorities will likely increase security near the venue. Police could erect roadblocks nearby to prevent demonstrators from gathering. The rally is likely to remain peaceful, but clashes cannot be ruled out if security personnel attempt to disperse protesters. Localized transport disruptions are possible in the event of a large turnout.
Advice
Exercise caution if traveling through the area or operating nearby, Sept. 20. Seek updated information on road conditions before traveling due to the potential for localized transport disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a nongovernmental building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
