Protests and blockades in the country
The teachers' movement has been gaining strength throughout the country. Roadblocks, protests in front of the Congress of the Union, and stoppages in various schools have been reported. In Mexico City, a massive march took place that started from the Zócalo and reached the Chamber of Deputies. At this location, the protesters demanded that the reform be halted and that a genuine dialogue with the workers be established.
Some of the protests have resulted in clashes with the police, especially in states like Oaxaca and Guerrero. In these places, the teachers attempted to access government buildings to demand an immediate response to their demands. The clashes with security forces have resulted in at least 15 people being detained and several injured.
Government response
Martí Batres, Secretary of the Interior, has defended the reform. He argues that this measure will strengthen the pension system and allow for an improved quality of life for workers once they retire. He has also stated that the government keeps an open stance for dialogue with the teachers, but he has been emphatic that there will be no rollback of the 2007 reform, as the protesters request.
Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum has declared that her administration is committed to improving labor rights. She assured that solutions will be sought that do not harm workers in the education sector.
What's next in the teachers' struggle?
Teachers' leaders have announced that if they do not receive a response to their demands from the government, they will call for a 48-hour national strike. They warn that this strike could be prolonged indefinitely. They also assure that the protests and blockades will continue until their demands are met.
