United States Issues Security Alert For Its Citizens In Martinique

The United States Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, has issued a security alert to Americans in Martinique amid ongoing violent unrest in the French Caribbean territory. Demonstrators have been protesting against the high cost of living. On Friday, the Embassy advised United States citizens to avoid large public gatherings, and maintain constant awareness of their surroundings. It also advised against wearing jewelry or displaying cash and encouraged monitoring local and international news and social media channels. The security alert came as Martinique authorities re-imposed a 9 am to 5 pm curfew in response to looting, arson, and street demonstrations. Schools have closed temporarily, and on Thursday, demonstrators targeted the territory’s main airport, forcing its brief closure. At least one person has died in the context of the unrest. However, local media reported only a few minor incidents between Saturday and Sunday night as a cleanup continued and the authorities urged a return to normalcy. Martinique has seen similar protests in recent years, many fuelled by anger over what demonstrators say is economic, social, and racial inequality. According to media reports, in 2020, 27% of Martinique residents lived under the poverty line, a rate 12 points higher than in mainland France. The...