On Friday, France announced new curfew measures aimed at curbing civil unrest on its Caribbean island of Martinique, where violent protests have erupted in response to soaring living costs.
The local French administration in Martinique has implemented a ban on public gatherings until October 14. Additionally, authorities are prohibiting the purchase of materials that could be used for arson attacks. These measures come as protests have severely disrupted flights at Martinique airport, prompting many flights to be redirected to the neighboring French island of Guadeloupe.
Since September 2024, widespread protests and violent confrontations have plagued the French Caribbean territory of Martinique. The unrest stems from rising living costs and restrictions on public protests imposed by the French Central Government in various municipalities.
Adding to the tension, elite riot police have been deployed to the island, a controversial move given their ban from the territory for over 65 years due to their involvement in the deaths of several young demonstrators.
Prior to 2024, Martinique had already experienced significant protests centered on issues of racial and economic inequality. Notably, civil unrest surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many residents protested against government restrictions implemented in November 2021.