Côte d’Ivoire: Students protest in Abidjan March 12; further likely /update 3

Event

Students protested in Abidjan on Tuesday, March 12, to denounce an ongoing teachers' strike and demand the resumption of classes. A continuation of the strike is expected and further protests by teachers and by students are possible in the coming days and weeks. Associated disruptions are expected in the vicinity of any demonstrations.

Context

Teachers were on strike since January 22 to demand better salaries, the payment of bonuses and housing fees, and class-free days on Wednesdays. Student protests erupted nationwide to denounce the strike. Teachers had previously agreed to suspend their nationwide strike for one month on March 3 to allow for talks. However, COSEFCI leaders claim that the teachers have not obtained any concessions from the government and teachers will continue their protest until their demands are satisfied. Some union leaders have called for educators to return to work and denounced efforts to prevent non-striking teachers from resuming classes.

Advice

Individuals in Côte d'Ivoire are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate public demonstrations and localized transportation disruptions, and avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution.