Algeria: Doctors’ and teachers’ strikes expanded March 27 /update 4

Event

On Tuesday, March 27, Algerian doctors and teachers announced that they would expand and resume their strike actions, respectively, over insufficient pay. An unspecified number of medical students and specialist doctors from several hospitals reportedly went on strike on Tuesday; additionally, a teachers' union announced the resumption of cyclical strike actions, to take place two days per week, on Tuesday, claiming that the government had not adequately responded to their demands echoed in earlier protests. Related disruptions to health services and academic classes are expected in Algiers and elsewhere in Algeria in the coming weeks. Associated protests, and consequent heightened security measures and transportation disruptions (including roadblocks), are also possible in the coming weeks.

Context

The Autonomous Collective of Algerian Medical Residents (CAMRA) first launched the protests in mid-November 2017 to demand the suspension of mandatory civil service for Algerian doctors, exemption from compulsory military service, and better pedagogical training, among other demands.

A teachers' strike, organized by the Conseil National Autonome du Personnel Enseignant du Secteur Ternaire de l'Education (CNAPESTE) education union, had been ongoing in Algiers, Béjaïa, Blida, and Tizi Ouzou provinces for three months before President Bouteflika assuaged teachers' concerns several weeks ago, temporarily ending the strike action.

Advice

Individuals in Algeria are advised to avoid any form of protest due to the risk of violence, keep abreast of the situation, confirm medical appointments, and anticipate increased wait times at health facilities.