Mexican teachers' strikes enter twelfth day over pension law repeal

Thousands of teachers from Mexico’s National Coordinating Committee of Education Workers (CNTE) continue to protest across the country. The strikes, now in their twelfth day, centre on demands for the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE Law. This issue has united the group despite internal disagreements and political pressures. The CNTE has long opposed the 2007 ISSSTE Law, which governs pension systems for public sector workers. A teacher from Chiapas stated that this cause remains strong enough to bridge divisions within the movement. Some members, however, have been influenced by the ruling Morena party, creating tension over decisions.

Negotiations with the government have so far failed to resolve the dispute. The CNTE rejected a proposal to bolster PENSIONISSSTE while keeping the individual account system in place. President Claudia Sheinbaum had promised during her campaign to repeal the 2007 law, a demand the CNTE insists is non-negotiable.

After 12 days of strikes, some teachers urged an end to the protests. Yet pension concerns and the push for public education reform have kept most united. The organisation will now conduct an internal review, leaving the door open for further action. The CNTE’s core principles include defending public education and pushing for greater democracy in schools and the country. Its focus remains on overturning the 2007 ISSSTE Law. The group has not ruled out additional mobilisations as discussions continue.