Guinea-Bissau: Unionized workers call for nationwide protests on July 28 and Aug. 3

Event

The National Union of Guinean Workers (UNTG) plans to protest nationwide from 07:30 July 28 and Aug. 3 to demand better working conditions and wages. Specific protest locations and the starting times of the Aug. 3 action have not been provided. UNTG members will likely gather in urban centers, including Bissau, Bafata, Gabu, and Bubaque. In towns and cities, protests are likely near government buildings, such as the National Assembly in Bissau and UNTG offices, including the UNTG Headquarters in Bissau. Hundreds of people are likely to participate, July 28. The number of protesters may increase on Aug. 3. The date marks Pidjiguiti Day in Guinea-Bissau, commemorating the 1959 massacre of striking workers at the Pidjiguiti docks in Bissau. Union officials have been quoted as saying that the current round of protests will run-up to the national day.

Security forces will almost certainly deploy to and attempt to disperse any gatherings that occur. Clashes are likely at all related events. Protests and security force deployments could result in localized ground travel disruptions. Workers may also demonstrate on other days in the run-up to Aug. 3.

Context

The planned action is the latest since late 2020 in furtherance of the UNTG's demands. The most recent related action occurred on July 14 when protesting UNTG workers gathered at the UNTG headquarters in Bissau; security forces fired tear gas to disperse the gathering. Similar gatherings were also dispersed by officials in Bafata, Gabu, and Bubaque, July 14. Strikes and protests are likely to persist nationwide until the workers' demands are met.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Reconfirm appointments during strike and protest periods. Heed the instructions of officials.