Guinea-Bissau: Unionized workers plan to protest in Bissau Nov. 20 amid ongoing nationwide strike /update 1

Event

A strike by the National Union of Guinean Workers - Union Central (UNTG-CS) is ongoing as of Nov. 18 and will likely persist through November. The latest in a series of protests and strikes since late 2020, the purpose of the action is to demand better working conditions and wages. Workers previously stated that they would strike on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

UNTG-CS plan to hold a related protest in Bissau, Nov. 20. Demonstrators will gather at Bairro de Ajuda from 07:30 before marching to the UNTG-CS headquarters. The exact march route is unclear. The march was initially scheduled for Nov. 17 but was postponed to Nov. 20 after authorities could not provide security guarantees. Officials in Bissau have approved the Nov. 20 gathering. Hundreds of people are likely to participate in the demonstration.

Strike-related disruptions are likely to persist through November. Disruptions to public services, including the health sector, are likely for the duration of the work stoppage. The action could impact nonemergency services at government hospitals; facilities will likely continue to provide emergency and COVID-19 treatment. Increased demand could disrupt services at private facilities.

Additional protests by union members are likely nationwide during the strike period. These are most likely in urban centers, including Bissau, Bafata, Gabu, and Bubaque. In towns and cities, protests are probable near government buildings, such as the National Assembly in Bissau and UNTG-CS offices, including the UNTG-CS headquarters in the capital. Security forces will almost certainly deploy to and attempt to disperse any unauthorized gatherings that occur. Protests and security force deployments are likely to result in localized ground travel disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Reconfirm health and public sector appointments during the strike period. Heed the instructions of officials. Plan for additional union-led strikes and protests through 2021.