French Guiana Gripped by General Strike Over Public Service Failures and Economic Woes

Widespread Unrest Paralyzes French Guiana

French Guiana was brought to a standstill in March 2017 by a comprehensive general strike initiated by state agents and a broad coalition of labor unions. The widespread industrial action and protests were a direct response to deep-seated grievances concerning public service dysfunctions, economic disparities, and a perceived neglect from mainland France. The unrest, which began on March 27, 2017, saw significant disruptions across the territory, including extensive blockades and the closure of essential services.

Demands for a 'Marshall Plan' and Improved Conditions

The strike was spearheaded by over 30 to 37 labor unions and the collective 'Pou Lagwiyann dékolé' (Let Guiana Take Off), which notably included the 'Collective of 500 Brothers', a group initially formed to combat crime. Protesters articulated a wide array of demands, calling for a 'Marshall Plan' to address critical issues such as:

• High crime rates and insecurity
• Severe economic difficulties and a high cost of living
• Lack of adequate public services, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure
• Limited access to basic utilities, with approximately 30% of the population lacking drinking water or electricity
• Alarmingly high youth unemployment, estimated at 50%

The collective also sought 'special status' for the territory, emphasizing a desire for greater recognition and investment from the French government.

Blockades and Major Disruptions

The strike quickly escalated, leading to widespread blockades that severely impacted daily life and economic activity. Roads were obstructed, including key routes to neighboring Brazil and Suriname, and access to the capital, Cayenne, and its airport was significantly hampered by barricades. The protests resulted in:

• The closure of schools and universities
• The shutdown of numerous shops and businesses
• Cancellations of flights by major airlines, including Air France and Air Caraibes
• The postponement of an Arianespace rocket launch at Europe's Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, a significant economic and symbolic blow

March 28, 2017, was designated a 'dead day' by local media, with virtually all activities ceasing. A historic demonstration on the same day saw between 8,000 and 10,000 people march in Cayenne, marking the largest protest ever recorded in French Guiana.

Negotiations and Unresolved Demands

In response to the escalating crisis, the French government initially dispatched a delegation, but local leaders and unions refused to meet, insisting on direct negotiations with French ministers. Subsequently, French Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve announced a high-level ministerial mission, leading to the arrival of Interior Minister Matthias Fekl and Overseas Territories Minister Ericka Bareigts. During discussions, the Guianese leadership presented a comprehensive list of 420 demands. France responded with an offer of 1.085 billion euros (approximately $1.07 billion) in aid, earmarked for investments in health, education, infrastructure, and security enhancements, including the deployment of additional police and the construction of a new prison. However, this offer was deemed 'unsatisfactory' and 'unrealistic' by the Guianese representatives, who countered with a demand for an immediate emergency aid package of 2.5 billion euros or 2.6 billion euros and the granting of 'special status' for the territory. Despite some agreements on specific projects, such as new schools and a police station in Cayenne, the broader demands remained largely unresolved, and the strike continued indefinitely, highlighting the persistent tensions between the overseas territory and mainland France.