New Caledonia: Unionized civil servants plan territorywide strike and related demonstrations Feb. 23

Event

Unions representing civil servants plan to stage a strike across New Caledonia and hold related demonstrations Feb. 23 to demand increased wages. Unless averted, the work stoppage will likely disrupt public service operations. Participants will gather from 07:30 at the Government of New Caledonia building and American Memorial in Noumea. Gatherings will also take place outside the North Province Hotel in Kone, and at undisclosed locations at Lifou, Mare, and Ouvea. Additional demonstrations are possible near other prominent government buildings and public squares, as well as along major thoroughfares. Larger gatherings have previously attracted hundreds of participants, especially in Noumea.

Security personnel will likely monitor any demonstrations that materialize. Isolated skirmishes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are possible.

Advice

Plan for public service disruptions and reconfirm appointments with government agencies Feb. 23. Exercise caution near any demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations near potential protest locations, especially in central Noumea. Heed all official transport and security advisories.