Guadeloupe: Authorities extend 18:00-05:00 curfew through early Nov. 29 due to unrest /update 3

Event

Authorities in Guadeloupe have extended the nightly 18:00-05:00 curfew through early Nov. 29 amid a strike and related civil unrest. The curfew does not cover La Desirade, Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes islands. Individuals traveling to work, to assist vulnerable people, or due to family or medical emergencies are exempt. Authorities have also banned the sale of fuel in jerrycans.

Several groups, including the General Union of Workers of Guadeloupe (Union Generale des Travailleurs de Guadeloupe, UGTG), have been protesting COVID-19 measures, such as COVID-19 health pass and vaccination requirements, since Nov. 15. Protesters have staged walk-outs and demonstrations across the territory, barricaded roads, and vandalized vehicles and buildings. Police have fired tear gas and used water hoses on the demonstrators. Notably, the French government is deploying special operations police units to the island in a bid to restore order. Following negotiations, French authorities have also suspended the implementation of the vaccine mandate for health workers and firefighters until Dec. 31.

Further protests and marches associated with the strike are likely across Guadeloupe in the coming days; clashes between demonstrators and security forces are possible, particularly if authorities attempt to disperse gatherings. Demonstrators are likely to block roads and close fuel stations on the island. Transport and business disruptions are likely near protest sites.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Confirm private transport and business appointments. Avoid unnecessary travel. If you encounter a roadblock, do not attempt to cross it; seek alternative routes or wait for the police to reopen the road.