ECNETNews, September 24, 2024: In response to escalating protests over soaring living costs, France has dispatched special anti-riot police to Martinique. The unrest, which began last week, has resulted in injuries to at least six police officers and one civilian due to gunfire. Demonstrators are still assembling on the island, despite a government-imposed ban on protests in several areas.
The elite riot police unit, known as the Companies for Republican Security (CRS), had previously been prohibited from operating in Martinique following allegations of excessive force during violent protests in 1959. Their deployment is rare in French Caribbean territories, although they were utilized during the Guadeloupe riots in 2009.
In a bid to restore order, the government has enforced a curfew and prohibited demonstrations in Fort-de-France, Le Lamentin, Ducos, and Le Robert amid concerns over potential looting and violence. Officials assert that these measures are necessary “to safeguard the population and businesses from vandalism” and to mitigate disruptions to everyday life.
During the weekend, peaceful demonstrations continued as protesters marched along highways, advocating for reduced food import taxes. Reports indicate that prices on the island can be as much as 40% higher than those in mainland France. Talks between involved parties have yet to yield a resolution.
Béatrice Bellay, a representative from the socialist party, criticized the government’s decision to deploy the CRS, stating, “Martinique is not in a civil war, it is a social war,” warning that such actions could further heighten tensions.
A comprehensive study by the French statistics office Insee in 2022 revealed that food prices in Martinique were significantly elevated, largely attributed to transport expenses, an uncompetitive local market, and high customs tariffs.
