Chad: Police arrest 60 students in N'Djamena protest January 29 /update 1

Event

Chadian police arrested approximately 60 students during violent anti-austerity protests in N'Djamena on Monday, January 29. The demonstrations were reportedly organized to protest austerity measures recently implemented under the 2018 budget law. According to local police officials, students hurled stones at cars before being arrested on Monday morning (local time); riot police were deployed near schools and at major intersections in N'Djamena, dispersing protesters with tear gas. A consequent heightened security presence is expected and localized transportation disruptions are possible in N'Djamena in the coming hours and days.

Context

A Chadian higher education union launched an indefinite strike on January 27, protesting a reduction in members' salaries under newly implemented austerity measures included in the 2018 budget. Universities and secondary and primary schools remain closed in Chad as of January 29. Chadian professors have warned that they will continue their strike unless their demands are addressed by the government.

In January 2018, the Chadian government announced new austerity measures in an effort to reduce its civil service payroll to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) spending requirements and ensure the organization's continued support for the country's 2018 budget. On January 25, a march was planned to protest poor governance, austerity measures, and perceived injustice. Demonstrations are common in the capital N'Djamena and often turn violent.

Advice

Individuals in Chad are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution due to the risk of violence, and adhere to advice issued by local authorities or their home governments.

On a separate note, due to the high terrorist threat, report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities and remain vigilant at all times, especially when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (e.g., public transportation, train stations, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.). Due to the risk of terrorism and other security concerns, many Western governments advise against all travel to areas near the borders with Niger, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Nigeria, and the Lake Chad region, as well as nonessential travel to the rest of the country, including N'Djamena. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to or within the country. ​