Côte d’Ivoire: Teachers remain on strike as of February 19 /update 2

Event

A nationwide indefinite strike by primary and secondary school teachers continued into its fourth week and most schools remain closed as the teachers’ union entered into discussions with the government as of Tuesday, February 20. Tensions increased on Monday, February 18, after 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. Associated protests by teachers are possible throughout Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in Abidjan, in the coming days and weeks. Related student protests are also possible.

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.

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.