Benin: Several professions barred from striking December 28

Event

Beninese lawmakers passed a new law on Thursday, December 28, barring several civil service professions from striking. Public security forces, health officials, and judiciary officials are prohibited from organizing or participating in future strikes.

Context

There has been mounting discontent among the Beninese population in recent months over the perceived poor management of the country by President Patrice Talon. Benin is currently facing a severe economic crisis, with unemployment at its highest point and purchasing power at its lowest in recent memory. Civil servant strikes and protests have become common in recent months.

Advice

Individuals in Benin are advised to monitor developments to the situation and avoid all protests, as violence may flare up without warning.

On a more general note, some Western governments advise against travel to the far north of the country - including areas along the Nigerien and Burkinabé borders - due to security concerns.