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13 Mar 2023 | 02:22 PM UTC

Reunion: Unions to hold islandwide strike and demonstrations March 15

Unions to hold strike and demonstrations across Reunion March 15. Further actions likely through mid-March.

Warning

Event

A coalition of major labour unions has called for an islandwide general strike and related actions March 15 to denounce a recently proposed pension reform raising the retirement age. In Saint-Denis, protesters will gather from 09:00 at the Petit Marche (Paul Verges Place) and march through the prefecture. In Saint-Pierre, participants will gather at 09:30; the gathering location remains unclear. In addition to the March 15 actions, Porters and Dockers workers have previously announced a shutdown at ports across the island on March 14 and 16.

It is unclear how many participants the events may draw nor the level of adherence to the work stoppage. The strike could cause disruptions to transport and other services. Heightened security and localized road disruptions are likely near all actions. Most actions will probably remain largely peaceful, though isolated clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out.

Context

A coalition of major labor unions, opposition political parties, and activist groups continue a campaign of strikes and associated protests across France and its overseas territories as of March. 13. Further action against the pension reform will likely occur in the coming weeks unless the government abandons the proposed legislation, which appears unlikely at the time of writing.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations. Reconfirm business appointments and travel arrangements on March 15. Heed the instructions of local authorities; leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Anticipate further actions in the coming days.