03 Oct 2017 | 07:10 AM UTC
Burkina Faso: Union calls for sit-in in Ouagadougou Oct. 4-6 /update 1
Secretaries' union calls for sit-in in Ouagadougou in support of better working conditions October 4-6; avoid protests
Event
The Burkina National Secretaries Union (SYNASEB) announced that sit-ins were scheduled to take place in Ouagadougou October 4-6 to protest the government's inaction regarding improvements to working conditions. Continuous sit-ins are scheduled for the 72-hour period in front of the governor and high commissioner offices, as well as in front of the Faso building in Ouagadougou. Similar actions are possible elsewhere in the country as well. SYNASEB also announced that, should the government ignore its demands, further action may be taken. Transportation disruptions are possible in the vicinity of protests.
Context
Burkina Faso is in the midst of a significant socioeconomic crisis, while also facing a heightened threat from terrorism. Protests by the political opposition as well as various sectors of society, public and private, regularly take place demanding better working and living conditions, condemning the government's perceived mismanagement of the country, as well as its heavy-handed suppression of opposition elements.
Advice
Individuals in Burkina Faso should avoid all demonstrations due to risk of violence and anticipate potential transportation disruptions.
On a separate note, due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, and other identifiers. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the borders.
