Chad: Public sector workers to launch strike May 28 /update 11

Event

On Saturday, May 26, public sector unions announced that an indefinite strike would be launched on Monday, May 28. Union leaders decided to go on strike after rejecting a government proposal to hold off the action until December 2018. The unions said that they will remain on strike until their demands are met or the agreement reached in March is upheld. Associated demonstrations are possible in the coming days and weeks, particularly in the capital city of N'Djamena.

Context

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. Chadian civil servants launched a nationwide general strike on January 29 to denounce the austerity measures, including salary and benefits cuts. The strike ended on March 20, after unions and the government reached a deal to secure the payment of unpaid wages.

Advice

Individuals in Chad are advised to 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. Be prepared for potential disruptions to public services in the event that civil servants resume their strike.

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.