Guadeloupe: Unions to hold territory-wide strike and demonstrations March 7

Event

Several unions, including the General Confederation of Labor of Guadeloupe (Confederation Generale du Travail de Guadeloupe, CGTG), plan to strike on March 7. The purpose of the action is to protest a proposed reform to the pension system that would increase the retirement age and make other labor-related demands of the government. Demonstrators will gather for a rally at the Palais de la Mutualite on Rue Paul Lacave, Pointe-a-Pitre, from 09:00 March 7; additional protests are likely elsewhere across the territory on March 7.

Business and transport disruptions are likely during the work stoppage. While most protests will probably remain peaceful, clashes between demonstrators and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Allow additional transport time to reach destinations near rally venues. Do not attempt to drive through any protester roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them before proceeding. Reconfirm business appointments. Heed the instructions of security personnel.