Côte d'Ivoire: Teachers begin nationwide indefinite strike May 20 /update 2

Event

The COSEF-CI union, which represents primary and secondary teachers, and the the National Coordination of Teachers Researchers of Côte d'Ivoire (CNCE), representing post-secondary teachers, both launched indefinite strikes on Monday, May 20. Both unions are demanding improved working conditions and housing allowances for teachers. According to COSEF-CI leaders, the union will hold a general meeting on Wednesday, May 22, to evaluate the situation and determine their next steps. The CNCE is also expected to meet on Monday, May 27, to decide if the strike should be renewed for another week. 

Associated protests by teachers are possible throughout Côte d'Ivoire, particularly in Abidjan, over the coming days and weeks.

Context

COSEF-CI held a warning strike from May 14-17 before holding negotiations with the government. However, the two sides were unable to reach an agreement. Teachers have launched a series of strikes since January 22 to demand better salaries, the payment of bonuses and housing fees, and class-free days on Wednesdays. Student protests subsequently broke out in response to work stoppages by teachers, with the Student Federation of Cote d'Ivoire (FESCI) claiming that the teachers have not obtained any concessions from the government and teachers. FESCI has threatened to continue sporadic protests until their demands are satisfied.

Advice

Individuals across Côte d'Ivoire are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.