Mali: Nationwide judge strike ends November 1 /update 3

Event

The nationwide total strike by judges launched August 28 ended on Thursday, November 1, following successful negotiations with the government. Judges are expected to resume work on Monday, November 5.

Context

Judges were protesting low salaries and poor working conditions, as well as demanding better workplace security. Courts were significantly impacted by the strike. While better security measures will be implemented, the salary question remains unresolved; judges will have to wait until 2019.

Advice

Individuals present in Mali are advised to avoid all protests and gatherings due to the potential for violence.

On a more general note, due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.