18 Jun 2024 | 03:42 PM UTC
Colombia: Teachers to continue to hold nationwide strike, protests through late June /update 1
Unionized teachers maintain nationwide strike, multiple protests across Colombia through late June. Disruptions likely.
Unionized teachers affiliated with the Colombian Federation of Education Workers (Federacion Colombiana de Trabajadores de la Educacion, FECODE) plan to maintain a nationwide strike indefinitely. They are demanding Congress oppose an education reform bill and say the strike will continue until Congress votes the project down. The strike, together with multiple protests, started on June 12.
FECODE leaders announced a rally and a concert in Plaza de Bolivar from 09:00 June 18, followed by a vigil at 18:00. Additional protests are likely in the coming days, but details have not been confirmed. It is likely that activists will march to the National Congress in Bogota and other government buildings. In other cities, including Barranquilla, Medellin, Cali, and Cartagena, marches are also likely in downtown areas, including government and education offices, and central squares. Thousands are likely to participate in some of the demonstrations. Disruptions associated with the protests are likely, including closed roads, heightened security, and some localized business disruptions. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out. Increased parent absenteeism is possible due to the closure of public schools.
Avoid all protests and heed instructions from authorities if operating near protest areas. Confirm appointments in advance in government buildings or offices located in downtown areas.
FECODE members have strongly opposed the passing of the Education Statutory Bill, currently being debated in Congress, despite their overall support to President Gustavo Petro's administration, which is supporting the bill. Educators are especially against a resolution in the bill which established a mandatory review of teachers' performances based on the result of their students in national tests. They are also opposing the creation of a voucher program.
