Gabon: Public workers union launches three-day strike Dec. 10

Event

Gabon’s largest labor union, Unity Dynamics (DU), launched a three-day strike on Monday, December 10, calling for 100,000 public workers to participate in the action. Union leaders have demanded the government cancel the current austerity measures and for the president of the Constitutional Court to resign. According to some media reports, as of Monday afternoon (local time), few workers in Libreville and major cities were participating in the strike. However, associated protests and disruptions are possible through Wednesday, December 12. DU leaders have also warned that a march will be held on Tuesday, December 18, if the government does not meet their demands.

Context

On June 21, the government announced plans for additional austerity measures, including cuts to civil servant salaries, prompting public outcry. Numerous protests and strikes have taken place in Gabon in recent months in response to socioeconomic conditions and the unpopular government austerity policies.

Advice

Individuals in Gabon, particularly in Libreville, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of potential violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.