Panama: Teacher strike ends in Colón March 19 /update 3

Event

On Monday, March 19, unions representing teachers in Colón ended a strike that had been ongoing since March 13, stating they would engage in talks with government officials. Demonstrations and associated transportation disruptions may persist while dialogs are ongoing; additional strikes are possible in the coming days and weeks should negotiations between unions and officials fail.

Context

Unions in Colón staged strikes and demonstrations on March 13 and March 14 to demand that the government address municipal issues related to education, gentrification, security, waste management, and the water supply. At least five people were reportedly wounded, including four police officers, while 45 people were arrested. Certain teacher unions elected to continue the strike until March 19.

Advice

Individuals in Colón are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid demonstrations as a precaution.