Chad: Nationwide anti-austerity protests February 6 and 8 /update 3

Event

Nationwide anti-austerity protests are expected to continue in Chad on Tuesday, February 6, and Thursday, February 8. At least six opposition political organizations are planning to participate in the protests on Tuesday; the opposition groups have organized the demonstrations to protest recently increased fuel prices, low wages, poor conditions in universities, and alleged human and civil rights violations committed by the government. The Chadian government has banned the protests. Civil society groups have also planned related nationwide anti-austerity protests on Thursday. A heightened security presence, clashes between protesters and security forces, and consequent transportation disruptions are expected in areas affected by the protests, including in N'Djamena. Demonstrations are common in the capital and often turn violent.

In addition, the associated public sector strike against the recently implemented austerity measures, launched on Monday, January 29, is expected to continue in the near-term. Public health services have been particularly affected by the strike; public clinics and hospitals are expected to only provide minimum services until the strike is ended. The strike is likely to continue until union demands - including reversing recent cuts to wages and benefits - are addressed by the government. The Confédération Libre de Travailleurs du Tchad (CLTT) has also called for a two-day strike from Monday, February 5, through Tuesday, February 6 (with the possibility of extension), to protest income tax hikes included in the 2018 Finance Act; associated commercial disruptions are expected.

Context

On January 29, Chadian police arrested around 110 people during violent anti-austerity protests in the capital, N'Djamena.

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.

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. ​