Côte d’Ivoire: Teachers suspend strike March 3 /update 1

Event

Secondary and primary teachers announced on Sunday, March 3, the suspension of their strike for a one-month period, to allow for negotiations with the government. University teachers also suspended reportedly their strike for a two-weeks period following the release of two members of the National Coordination of Teachers Researchers of Côte d'Ivoire (CNEC). As such, classes are expected to resume as of Monday, March 4.

However, teachers have warned the strike may resume if their demands are not met by the government.

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.

On February 18, the secretary general of the CNEC and his communication officer were arrested in Abidjan on charges of disturbing the public order, increasing tensions between the government and protesters.

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.