The Committee for Justice (CFJ) expresses deep concern over the reported abduction of four teachers in the San region of central Mali, in incidents reported in July and October 2026.
Among the victims is Salif Dembélé, head of Fani School, who was reportedly abducted from the school premises on 20 October. Two other teachers were abducted on 21 October. The teachers’ union also identified Benoît Coulibaly among those whose whereabouts remain a concern.
CFJ calls on the Malian authorities to urgently establish the whereabouts of the abducted teachers, ensure their safety and secure their release. The authorities must also conduct an independent and effective investigation and hold those responsible accountable.
The targeting of teachers and threats against educational institutions pose a serious threat to the right to education and the safety of education personnel and students.
CFJ recalls Mali’s obligations under Articles 3 and 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 13 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
CFJ urges the authorities to take immediate measures to protect teachers and educational institutions and ensure the uninterrupted continuation of education without threats or coercion.
