The Senegalese state has taken a further step in its conflict with teachers. In response to the strikes that have been shaking the sector for four months, significant deductions have been made from February 2026 salaries. While the government cites legality, the unions denounce these measures as indiscriminate and disproportionate.

A controversial austerity measure

The G7 , a coalition of the most representative middle and secondary sector unions, has observed salary reductions ranging from 35,000 to 281,000 FCFA (approximately €53 to €429).

According to Ndongo Sarr, head of the G7, these cuts are problematic on two levels:

1. The scale: They sometimes exceed one-third of monthly income.
2. Targeting errors: Non-striking teachers, as well as women on maternity leave, were also reportedly impacted.

The executive branch's defense: "The law, nothing but the law."

Interviewed on the Wal Fadjri channel, the Minister of Public Service, Olivier Boucal , maintained the State's firm stance. He asserted that these deductions comply with the regulations governing the right to strike (service not rendered, salary not owed).

While advocating dialogue, the minister emphasizes the impossibility of immediately satisfying all the financial demands of teachers without jeopardizing the country's budgetary balance.

An economic context under high tension

The government of Bassirou Diomaye Faye , in power since April 2024, inherited a critical financial situation which the new authorities attribute to the management of the former regime of Macky Sall.

Key figures of the crisis: | Indicator | Situation (end of 2024) | | :--- | :--- | | Budget deficit | Nearly 14% of GDP | | Public debt | Approximately 132% of GDP | | IMF aid | $1.8 billion program suspended |

This alleged lack of transparency in public accounts prompted the IMF to freeze its aid in 2023. Although negotiations for a new program began last October, Senegal's financial leeway remains extremely limited, explaining the government's rigidity regarding wage agreements signed in the past.