The Trade Union Front for the Defense of Labor has announced a major national march scheduled for April 8, 2026, to protest what it calls the “prejudices” suffered by workers in Senegal.
The workers will also demand urgent measures to improve their working and living conditions.
Speaking to the press in Dakar on Thursday, the coalition, which brings together a dozen labor unions, called on all workers, trade unions, civil society actors, and social forces to mobilise massively for this demonstration.
According to its leaders, this mobilisation constitutes a “decisive moment” for the defense of social
rights.
The Trade Union Front is particularly denouncing the unjustified deductions made from the salaries of striking teachers in February.
According to the coalition, these measures infringe upon the right to strike and trade union freedoms. It is therefore demanding the immediate reimbursement of the deducted amounts and the cessation of all measures it considers sanctions related to the exercise of trade union rights. The trade unions are also calling for a “frank and sincere” dialogue with the government to examine workers’ demands in several sectors, including education, healthcare, and public administration.
They are also demanding full respect for the commitments contained in the National Pact for Social Stability, signed between the state, employers, and social partners to maintain a peaceful social climate.
The Trade Union Front is also insisting on the need to end what it considers abusive layoffs, strengthen worker protections, and improve wage policies in the face of the rising cost of living.
The unions warn that further actions could be considered if their demands are not met by the authorities. Among the options being discussed is the organisation of a general strike, which could affect several sectors of the economy.
According to the Trade Union Front, the march on April 8th aims to alert the public and government authorities to the deterioration of workers’ rights and living conditions.
The coalition also warns of a possible escalation of social tensions if no concrete response is given to the concerns expressed by the unions.
On Labor Day, May 1, 2025, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and his government signed the National Social Stability Pact (PNSS).
This tripartite agreement, concluded between the State of Senegal, employers’ organizations, and workers’ unions, is valid for three years and aims to establish social stability conducive to the country’s economic development.
TE/fss/as/APA