05 Jul 2017 | 04:36 PM UTC
Argentina: Teachers and government reach agreement ending protests
Teachers and government reach agreement over 27.4 percent wage increase July 4; ends six months of teacher strikes and protests
Event
On Tuesday, July 4, the Front of the Teaching Unit of Buenos Aires (FUDB) and government officials reached an agreement to increase teacher's wages by 27.4 percent, ending six months of regular teacher strikes and protests in the province of Buenos Aires. The teacher's union initially demanded a salary increase of 35 percent in response to rising inflation, with the governor of Buenos Aires initially offering an 18 percent increase.
Context
Sociopolitical tensions have been on the rise in Argentina since current (conservative) President Mauricio Macri took office in December 2015, with an uptick in anti-government protests and strikes observed in recent months. Various groups, including teachers, are demanding increased salaries amid high inflation and protesting to draw attention to other socioeconomic issues, including high unemployment, poverty, and economic inequality.
Advice
Individuals in Argentina are advised to monitor the situation and avoid any future protests or gatherings.
