Haiti: Multiple sectors plan to join a nationwide general strike and protests Feb. 1-2

Event

Workers in various sectors, including teachers, lawyers, transport workers, and other workers, have called for a 48-hour nationwide general strike in Haiti Feb. 1-2. The anti-government action is to protest general insecurity across the country, including violence and kidnapping. The work stoppage is likely to cause widespread disruptions to transport services and commercial operations.

The action takes place amid an uptick in opposition protests demanding that President Jovenal Moise step down by Feb. 7, the date on which opposition groups argue that Moise's term constitutionally ends. The strike also coincides with the start of a nationwide civil disobedience campaign against Moise, which includes blockading roads. Striking workers are likely to hold their own protests or join the ongoing opposition protests as part of their agitation Feb. 1-2.

Specific protest times and locations in Haiti are often not announced in advance. The largest protests are likely to center on Port-au-Prince. Flashpoints for protests in the capital include Rue Champs de Mars, Palais National, and Parliament, as well as Delmas, Petion-Ville, and the Pelerin 5 area, where the president resides. Protests outside the US Embassy have also become more common.

Police will probably deploy in force near all large protests, especially in Port-au-Prince. The protests carry an elevated threat of clashes. Protesters could attempt to block roads, burn vehicles, and vandalize private businesses during any protests that materialize.

Advice

Avoid all protests; shelter in place if unrest occurs nearby. Monitor local media for information regarding protest activity and road closures, especially in Port-au-Prince. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for authorities to remove them. Confirm all business appointments.