Guinea: One killed during protests in Conakry Nov. 20 /update 1

Event

Police forces reportedly fired live ammunition at students protesting in the capital Conakry on Monday, November 20, as an ongoing teacher strike entered its second week. One student was killed and four others injured. Related protests also took place in Koundara, Mali, Gaoual, Fria, Kankan, Siguiri, and Faranah cities.  These protests by students are in response to a lack of teachers in classrooms, due to the ongoing education sector strike. Further protests and associated violence are likely in the coming days.

Context

Teachers are continuing their nationwide, indefinite strike despite calls from the government and other unions to lift it. The strike began on November 13, with teachers demanding the complete implementation of a wage increase agreement made between the government and union representatives in September 2016. However, the strike is not supported by all members of the Free Union of Teachers and Researchers of Guinea (SLECG). Since November 13, small sporadic protests by students have occurred in Conakry, demanding that the teachers return to work.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea, particularly Conakry, are advised to remain vigilant and avoid all protests.