Honduras: Protesters start fire at entrance to US Embassy in Tegucigalpa May 31 /update 3

Event

According to local sources, protesters have set fire to tires at the entrance of the US Embassy in the capital Tegucigalpa on Friday afternoon (local time), May 31. Security forces subsequently converged on the area to put out the fire and secure the embassy.

Thousands of protesters continue to block main roads and clash with police across the capital on Friday. Protests associated with a nationwide strike by doctors and teachers are scheduled to continue through Friday evening. Widespread transportation disruptions are to be anticipated over the coming hours; disruptions to flights at Toncontín International Airport (TGU) are also possible. Additional clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out. Disruptions to healthcare services are also possible during the strike.

Context

Education and healthcare workers organized the 48-hour strike to denounce decrees aimed at restricting Honduran health and education sectors. The workers have previously held strikes and demonstrations through the month of May.

According to activists, at least 25 people have been wounded in clashes in recent days. Associated rallies were also held in towns across the country, including Orica and Villanueva. On May 30,  flight operations were disrupted at Toncontín International Airport (TGU) after demonstrators attempted to force their way into the airport.

Advice

Individuals in Honduras, particularly Tegucigalpa, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions, long wait times for healthcare services, and a heightened security presence near possible protest sites.

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to confirm flight reservations prior to leaving for the airport and to contact their airline for additional information.