Haiti: Religious authorities organize strike among Catholic institutions nationwide April 15

Event

Catholic leaders in Haiti have called for all their institutions nationwide to close and observe a work stoppage that will affect churches, schools, and universities, among others. The strike is in protest of growing insecurity and violence in the country following the kidnapping of seven members of the clergy outside the capital, Port-au-Prince, on April 11. Government authorities have refused to pay the USD-1 million ransom demanded by the kidnappers.

Protests have not been formally organized but remain a possibility throughout the day on April 15, both in the vicinity of Catholic institutions and near government offices. Should protests take place, police will likely deploy to monitor any marches that occur, particularly in the capital. Localized traffic disruptions are a possibility in the vicinity of any protests. Major violence is unlikely.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Plan for localized traffic disruptions in central Port-au-Prince and urban centers April 15.