Mexican teachers' union ends strike but vows to continue fight for reforms

The National Coordinating Council of Education Workers (CNTE) in Mexico has announced the suspension of its national strike and the dismantling of its protest camp in Mexico City. However, the union leadership insists that their core demands, including the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE law and the education reform, remain unmet and will continue to be pursued.

“

The suspension of the strike does not represent the closure of the struggle, but the beginning of a new phase of internal strengthening to promote future mobilization campaigns throughout the country.

CNTE leaders declared that the strike's pause signifies not an end to their struggle, but the beginning of a new phase focused on internal reorganization and strengthening for future nationwide mobilizations. They argue that the federal government failed to provide adequate responses to their central demands, leading to the decision to shift tactics.

“

The salary increases announced by the government are insufficient in the face of the rising cost of living, and education workers continue to face precarious salaries, lack of medication, and deficiencies in medical care.

Among the primary demands are the reinstatement of dismissed teachers, a 100% salary increase, the democratization of the SNTE (National Union of Education Workers), and substantial improvements to health services. The union contends that the salary increases offered by the government are insufficient given the rising cost of living, leaving educators facing precarious wages, a lack of medication, and inadequate healthcare. The CNTE maintains that the decision to pause the strike aligns with the mandate from its members and does not represent a defeat for the movement.

“

The national mobilization is the result of years of resistance against the ISSSTE Law, and recalls that the CNTE has maintained a constant struggle since the approval of that reform.