Algeria: Medical residents suspend strike June 24 /update 8

Event

Medical residents throughout the country decided to temporarily suspend their strike on Sunday, June 24, after nearly eight months of striking, including a total strike that started in late April 2018. The suspension was announced in a bid to allow for dialogue with the authorities on their demands. However, the strike could resume if no dialogue is established between the protesters and the government. During the strike severe disruptions to health services, including longer wait times and lack of emergency services, were reported.

Context

Medical residents escalated their protest on April 29 after declaring a nationwide total strike. The Autonomous Collective of Algerian Medical Residents (CAMRA) first launched protests in mid-November 2017 to call for the suspension of mandatory civil service for Algerian doctors, exemption from compulsory military service, and better pedagogical training, among other demands. Striking health workers, as well as striking workers from other sectors, have complained of a lack of dialogue with the government.

Advice

Individuals in Algeria are advised to avoid any form of protest due to the risk of violence, keep abreast of the situation, and confirm medical appointments.