Surinamese teachers halt industrial action
The Federation of Teachers’ Organisations in Suriname (FOLS) has announced that it will suspend the ongoing industrial actions that began last Wednesday.
The decision came after a crucial meeting held by FOLS’ leadership over the weekend, which led to a thorough evaluation of the situation.
Initial cause and collective action
Teachers have been leaving their schools mid-morning daily since the previous week, joining a broader movement spearheaded by various trade unions.
This collective action aimed to pressure the government into reducing the soaring electricity rates, which have significantly impacted the livelihoods of educators and the general populace.
Communication with government officials
In a formal move, FOLS has notified Henry Ori, the Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, about their decision to halt the strike.
The correspondence detailed the unanimous decision by member associations, including SOB, COB, KOB, and IOB, to suspend the strike starting from Wednesday, May 15, 2024.
Negotiations and government response
The decision to suspend the industrial action is not devoid of ongoing dialogues. FOLS highlighted that it was based on ongoing technical consultations between energy experts from the trade union movement and government representatives.
These discussions have focused on various aspects of the dispute, with FOLS expressing anticipation for a favorable outcome.
Earlier in the month, President Chandrikapersad Santokhi acknowledged the hardships imposed by the necessary reforms under the IMF’s guidance, which include controversial increases in electricity rates.
Despite extensive discussions with cooperating trade unions, a consensus on this issue had yet to be reached.
Economic challenges and political backdrop
The government’s proposed economic adjustments include significant reductions in diesel prices and electricity costs, alongside adjustments to other utilities.
However, these proposals have faced staunch opposition from several political factions, including the National Democratic Party, which has challenged the legality of the rate increases.
