Mexican teachers launch nationwide protests demanding higher pay and pension reforms

From June 1 to June 20, thousands of teachers affiliated with democratic unions staged a series of coordinated protests across Mexico. Demonstrators set up a 20‑day sit‑in in Mexico City, marched toward the Estadio Azteca, blocked major avenues, occupied public offices and staged actions in front of private TV stations and pension fund offices.

The mobilizations spread to 28 states, with total work stoppages reported in Chiapas, Zacatecas and Oaxaca, and an 80 % school shutdown in Guerrero. In several regions, teachers also blocked toll booths and checkpoint facilities. Their grievances focus on extremely low salaries—teachers with a bachelor's degree earn roughly 2.1 times the minimum wage, and those with a master's receive a modest bi‑weekly bonus of 23 pesos—as well as the restrictive labor regime under the ISSSTE law of 2007 and inadequate pension benefits for those not covered by the transitional regime.

Union leaders call for the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE law, higher wages, equitable benefits across states, and improved pension provisions. The protests have drawn attention from government officials, who have adjusted some travel plans for political figures to avoid confrontations.