Chad: Indefinite nationwide university professors strike Jan. 27

Event

University professors throughout the country are currently in the midst of an indefinite strike that began on Saturday, January 27, to protest against decreases in their salaries. The professors have warned that they will continue their strike unless their demands are addressed by the government. Related protests are possible in the coming days.

Context

In January 2018, the Chadian government announced new austerity measures in an effort to reduce its civil service payroll to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) spending requirements and ensure the organization's continued support for the country's 2018 budget. On January 25, a march was planned to protest poor governance, austerity measures, and perceived injustice. Demonstrations are common in the capital N'Djamena and often turn violent.

Advice

Individuals in Chad are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution due to the risk of violence, and adhere to advice issued by local authorities or their home governments.

On a separate note, due to the high terrorist threat, report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities and remain vigilant at all times, especially when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (e.g., public transportation, train stations, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.). For these and other security reasons, many Western governments advise against all travel to areas near the borders with Niger, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Nigeria, and the Lake Chad region, as well as nonessential travel to the rest of the country, including N'Djamena. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to or within the country.