Mexico education union CNTE ramps up protests after meeting cancellation, amid World Cup

The Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) said Education Secretary Mario Delgado cancelled a scheduled dialogue meeting without notice, prompting the union to intensify demonstrations on Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City. Protesters continued marches, blockades and the removal of some tent camps, while demanding the repeal of the ISSSTE pension reform, higher wages and the removal of the current education reform.

Delgado responded by accusing the CNTE of seeking to damage Mexico’s image during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. He affirmed that the federal government remains willing to dialogue, noting a fourth meeting with CNTE representatives and presenting proposals to overhaul the teachers’ career system. Delgado announced a forthcoming consultation with educators on labor rights, transparency and anti‑corruption measures, and reiterated that protests should not be driven by political motives unrelated to genuine educational demands.