CNTE escalates teacher protests in Mexico ahead of World Cup 2026

The Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) launched a new round of negotiations with Mexico’s federal authorities—Secretary of the Interior Rosa Icela Rodríguez, Education Secretary Mario Delgado and ISSSTE head Martí Batres—while maintaining an indefinite nationwide strike. The teachers demand the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE law and recent education reforms, full payment of salaries, reinstatement of vacant positions and pension improvements. They have organized a megamarch for 11 June, joining Ayotzinapa normal school students and other social groups, and warned of possible road blockades in Mexico City and Oaxaca.

Hours before the World Cup opening ceremony, the federal government presented fresh proposals to the CNTE at the Interior Ministry, covering education and social security issues. The CNTE said it will review the offers but warned it could march to the Mexico City airport and expand its action plan if demands are not met. The protests coincide with preparations for the tournament’s inaugural match between Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca Stadium, prompting heightened security measures and alternate traffic routes.