Haiti: Protests planned against national budget Sep. 18-22 /update 2

Event

Opponents to the 2017-2018 national budget proposed by President Jovenel Moïse are planning to hold numerous protests in the coming week. The president of the Association of Haitian Owners and Drivers (APCH) announced on Friday, September 15, that a nationwide transportation strike will be held on Monday, September 18. According to media reports, several other transportation trade unions have said they will join the APCH in the strike. Opposition leaders also declared that they will organize protests in the capital city of Port-au-Prince from Wednesday, September 20, through Saturday, September 23. Expect severe disruptions and increased security measures during the demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Violent protests broke out in Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, September 12, after the budget was adopted by the Lower House of Parliament. A number of vehicles were set on fire and there were isolated clashes with the police. The budget has received strong criticism because it includes a significant pay raise and a set of perks for Members of Parliament while increasing costs for the rest of the population.

Advice

Individuals in Port-au-Prince are advised to monitor the situation, to strictly avoid all protests and rallies due to the high likelihood of violence, and to adhere to advice and instructions issued by the local authorities and/or their home governments.