Côte d’Ivoire: Students to protest amid ongoing teacher strike Feb. 26 /update 3

Event

The FESCI student union has announced nationwide demonstrations on Tuesday, February 26, to denounce recent developments related to an ongoing indefinite strike by primary and secondary school teachers. Demonstrations are expected on university campuses across the country from 07:00 (local time). 

The strike is heading into its fifth week and most schools remain closed. The student union has also demanded the release union leaders, students, and teachers who were arrested in recent weeks, in order to facilitate discussions to end the strike. Associated protests by teachers and students are possible throughout Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in Abidjan, in the coming days and weeks. 

Context

Secondary and primary teachers are demanding better salaries, the payment of bonuses and housing fees, and class-free days on Wednesdays. Student protests erupted in Bouaké, Boundiali, Ferkessédougou, on February 4 to denounce the strike. On February 18, the secretary general of the National Coordination of Teachers Researchers of Côte d'Ivoire (CNEC) and his communication officer were arrested in Abidjan on charges of disturbing the public order, increasing tensions between the government and protesters. Unions entered into discussions with the government on February 20. 

Social unrest is common in Côte d'Ivoire, especially on university campuses where students and lecturers regularly protest a lack of resources, delayed scholarship payments and research funding, and accommodation issues.

Advice

Individuals across Côte d'Ivoire are advised to monitor developments to the situation and avoid any related protests.