Morocco: Activists plan to protest outside Ministry of Education in Rabat Dec. 22

Event

The National Education Union (SNE) has called for a protest outside the Ministry of Education in Rabat from 1100 Dec. 22. The action is to denounce the Ministry of Education's alleged failure to honor terms of a previous agreement and refusal to offer full-time jobs to contract-based teachers. Hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the Ministry of Education through the afternoon of Dec. 22. Clashes are possible if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

Protests and strikes by teachers, particularly those that are contract-based, have been ongoing for several months throughout the country. The government had hired thousands of temporary teachers to address a nationwide teacher shortage. As part of their demands, education unions are pressing for the government to offer contract-based teachers the same benefits that permanent teachers receive. Unless the Ministry of Education accepts the education unions' demands, the protests and strikes will likely continue. The recent labor actions and protests occur amid the government's ongoing efforts to reduce public spending.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Anticipate road travel disruptions near the Ministry of Education Dec. 22.