29 Aug 2018 | 01:59 PM UTC
Guatemala: Teachers' march in Guatemala City August 29 /update 1
Teachers’ union march planned in Guatemala City August 29; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions expected
Event
The Union of Workers in Education (STEG) and the National Assembly of Magisterium (ANM) will hold a march in Guatemala City on Wednesday, August 29, to demand the implementation of a collective bargaining agreement that was approved in February. Participants are expected to gather at 08:00 (local time) at Plaza del Obelisco and march to the Congress of Guatemala. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the demonstration sites.
Context
Teacher unions held a related march in May that caused serious traffic disruptions throughout the city. In April, STEG members held a 21-day strike that affected nearly 1 million students, according to local sources.
The collective bargaining agreement which was approved in February would raise teacher salaries and allocate more resources to the education department.
Advice
Individuals in Guatemala City are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
