Jordan: Nationwide teachers' strike continues October 3 /update 3

Event

A nationwide teachers' strike continued Thursday, October 3, as thousands gathered in front of the headquarters of the General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions in Amman to demand higher wages. Over 4,000 public schools and 1 million students have been impacted by the strike, which has been ongoing since Sunday, September 8. As of Thursday, the government has refused to accede to demands of a 50 percent pay hike.

Associated protests are possible across the country, notably in Amman, over the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence along with localized traffic disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any protest. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

On September 5, teachers held a protest in Amman to demand higher salaries, resulting in clashes with security forces as protesters attempted to march to the office of Prime Minister Omar Razzaz. In response, the Jordanian Teachers Syndicate launched a nationwide strike on September 8. At least 100,000 teachers are said to be participating in the ongoing strike.

On September 29, the Administrative Court ruled to suspend the open strike following lawsuits filled by parents of students. On the same day, the government offered striking teachers pay hikes ranging from 6 to 18 percent, against the 50 percent increase demanded by the teachers.

Advice

Individuals in Jordan, and particularly in Amman, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.