Mexico: Teacher strikes and protests continue /update 4

Event

An indefinite strike as well as protests organized by the powerful CNTE teacher union (Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación) continue as of June 13. The strike was launched on June 4 in the states of Oaxaca, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Chiapas. Associated protests have been ongoing in the capital Mexico City since that date and some have resulted in clashes and/or traffic disruptions. Violence is also possible in the above four states. This is particularly true in Oaxaca - where teachers have blocked access to Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) and the city of Oaxaca’s bus terminal - due to rising anger among parents and other residents.

Context

Teachers have held numerous strikes and protests in Mexico in recent years amid major reforms to the education sector implemented by the government of President Enrique Peña Nieto. Past strikes in the south of the country have lasted for weeks (even months), involving deadly protests and blockades which have led to shortages of consumer goods.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the potential for violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.