Mexico: Teacher strikes and protests continue /update 3

Event

An indefinite strike as well as protests organized by the powerful CNTE teacher union (Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación) continue. The strike was launched on June 4 in the states of Oaxaca, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Chiapas, and associated protests have been ongoing in the capital Mexico City since that date. On Thursday, June 7, clashes broke out in the capital between striking workers and security forces during a rally and roadblock held in front of the Televisa channel offices on Avenida Chapultepec, leaving some ten people injured. Demonstrations were also held nearby on Paseo de la Reforma. Violence is also possible in the coming days in the above four states, notably Oaxaca, amid rising anger among parents and other residents.

Context

Teachers have held numerous strikes and protests in Mexico in recent years amid major reforms to the education sector implemented by the government of President Enrique Peña Nieto. Past strikes in the south of the country have lasted for weeks (even months), involving deadly protests and blockades which have led to shortages of consumer goods.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the potential for violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.