Unions in Martinique Intensify Protests Over Soaring Living Costs

The French Caribbean island faces traffic paralysis and an indefinite strike as demands for higher wages and price controls escalate.

Two major unions in Martinique have joined ongoing protests against high living costs, leading to increased unrest on the island.
A transportation union has ordered tractor-trailers to block main roads and public buses to halt services, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Another union, representing health workers, local authorities, and private sector employees, has announced an indefinite strike starting Thursday.
Protesters are demanding increases in the minimum wage, retirement pensions, and the implementation of price controls on essential goods.
Violence has escalated since the protests began in early September, prompting the French government to deploy anti-riot police and enforce a curfew.