**Reform to the ISSSTE Law: Unaffected Workers and Ongoing Union Advocacy**
The National Education Workers Union’s General Secretary, Elmuth Castillo Sandoval, recently addressed the ongoing protests by teachers in Baja California Sur against the proposed reform to the Institute for Social Security and Services for State Workers (ISSSTE) law. Although the reform has been withdrawn from the Union Congress under the directive of President Claudia Sheinbaum Prado, Castillo emphasized that it no longer posed a threat to the workers’ rights.
Castillo stated, “In its initial form, the reform did impact those earning over 10 UMAs. However, as a national union, we pushed for those aspects to be removed, ensuring they were excluded even before the initiative was officially suspended.”
The syndicate leader elaborated that the SNTE, as the largest union, led negotiations with federal authorities to protect the interests of various union members. He also pointed out that President Sheinbaum had assured on multiple occasions that there would be no harmful effects stemming from the reform.
While the reform’s focus on housing was seen positively by the union, Castillo noted a disconnect with teachers who remained steadfast in their opposition, particularly concerning provisions related to health and housing.
He expressed concerns about misinformation reportedly spread by some educators to parents, urging a more informed dialogue: “There’s no fairness in spreading outdated information. It’s important to clarify that the contentious parts of the reform were already removed.”
Baja California Sur’s educators have reiterated that their objections are not based on housing issues but rather on the lack of adequate retirement and pension provisions. They demand changes that would allow women to retire after 28 years of service and men after 30, aligning with past promises to revoke the 2007 reform.
—
**Further Developments on ISSSTE Reform and Union Protests**
Beyond the localized discontent in Baja California Sur, the broader national discourse around the ISSSTE law reform draws attention. El Financiero reported that amidst mounting pressure, many unions across Mexico have mirrored these calls, urging for comprehensive reform that includes improved retirement benefits for all public-sector workers.
Moreover, an investigation by Milenio suggested that even though the reform is on hold, ongoing discussions between the government and union leaders emphasize the importance of future-proofing social security systems, reflecting broader economic challenges and demographic shifts.
As these conversations continue, stakeholders hope for a resolution that balances fiscal responsibility with the legitimate needs of workers, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the nation’s public service frameworks.