Honduras: Protests planned amid general strike June 3-4 /update 4

Event

The nationwide strike initiated by the education and healthcare workers in early may continues as of Monday, June 3. The workers have called for associated protest marches to take place on Monday, June 3, and Tuesday, June 4, in the capital Tegucigalpa. On Monday, June 3, protesters are expected to gather at the Honduran Social Security Institute building in La Granja at 07:00 (local time) while on Tuesday, June 4, protesters will gather outside the National Pedagogical University Francisco Morazán.

Widespread transportation disruptions, including at Toncontín International Airport (TGU), and a heightened security presence are likely over the coming hours and days. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

On April 25, education and healthcare workers launched an indefinite strike to denounce decrees aimed at restricting Honduran health and education sectors. Associated demonstrations were held throughout the month of May in major urban centers, including in the capital Tegucigalpa.

According to activists, at least 25 people have been wounded in clashes during protests held in recent days. On May 30, flight operations were disrupted at Toncontín International Airport (TGU) after demonstrators attempted to force their way into the airport. On May 31, protesters set fire to barricade at US Embassy in Tegucigalpa. 

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.