05 May 2022 | 06:24 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Unionized workers to hold day-long nationwide strike May 6
One-day general strike planned across Sri Lanka, May 6, amid anti-government protests. Demonstrations, disruptions likely. Clashes possible.
Event
A coalition of over 2,000 trade and labor unions in Sri Lanka has called for a 24-hour nationwide general strike May 6. Organizers are demanding the government resign over an ongoing economic crisis. Worker unions held a similar strike April 28, causing significant nationwide disruptions; union leaders have threatened to launch an indefinite strike from May 11 if the government does not resign.
The action will involve various state-owned and private entities with unionized employees; most public services, including banks, non-emergency departments at hospitals, schools, and railways, will be affected. Shops and private transport may also close. Government officials claim essential and emergency services will remain operational.
Organizers have announced protests near the Ministry of Health building and the Rajagiriya Flyover in Colombo May 6; additional demonstrations and street marches are likely near the parliament house in Colombo, as well as at district headquarters and city centers. Dozens to hundreds of workers may join each event. Localized transport disruptions and security deployment are likely near any large protests. Protests could turn violent quickly, though security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution.
Advice
Confirm business and medical appointments, deliveries, road status, and transport reservations in advance. Plan for service disruptions during the strike and seek alternative arrangements as necessary. Avoid all protests due to possible violence. Do not navigate protester roadblocks as activists may react violently; wait for the police to clear them before proceeding. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time in Colombo and other urban centers due to potential protests. Monitor trusted local media for updates on rally venues as organizers may announce or change plans at short notice. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
