New Caledonia: Unionized workers plan territorywide strike Oct. 11-16

Event

The Confederation des Syndicats des Travailleurs Caledoniens Force Ouvriere (CSTC-FO) trade union has announced a territorywide strike Oct. 11-16. Participants intend to denounce new COVID-19-related health restrictions, including the introduction of a health pass, coming into effect on Oct. 11.

Workers may also hold protests during the strike. Organizers had planned to hold gatherings outside government buildings at 07:00 Oct. 11, but the government refused to give permission to hold the protests. Activists may still protest Oct. 11-16; likely venues include government buildings, especially in Noumea, as well as public squares. Larger protests will likely involve several dozen to a few hundred people.

Commercial disruptions are likely during the strike period. No transport services have announced support for the action, though transport disruptions are possible should transport workers participate. Security personnel will likely monitor gatherings and may try to disperse especially disruptive protests as well as rallies that ignore COVID-19 gathering restrictions. Skirmishes between police and protesters are possible. Protests and resultant security responses may cause localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Confirm business appointments and confirm transport schedules and services in advance. Avoid protests due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Monitor local news sources for updates on protests and road conditions, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Allow additional travel time near gatherings.