Workers’ union calls for nationwide strike November 18-20

Event

A three-day nationwide strike from Wednesday, November 18, through Friday, November 20, has been called for by the National Workers' Union of Mali (UNTM) to demand improved working and living conditions for workers. Negotiations between the union and the government were expected to conclude on Tuesday, November 17; however, media sources indicate that an agreement was not confirmed between the UNTM and the authorities and therefore the strike action will likely go ahead. Union leaders are also reportedly calling for wage packet systems to be standardized. The UNTM is the largest union in Mali, representing 80 percent of the unionized workers in the country including miners, teachers, and health workers. The strike action will likely attract support from thousands of employees.

Associated demonstrations are possible outside of government buildings in Bamako and other cities across the south and center of the country. Strike-action is less likely to occur in the north of the country due to militant activity and persistent insecurity. Localized disruptions to transport and services and a heightened security presence are likely in the vicinity of demonstrations.

Advice

Those in Mali are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate associated disruptions during the strike period, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and heed any instructions issued by local authorities.