Lebanon: National civil servant strike called off May 22 /update 1

Event

On Wednesday, May 22, civil servants - except for judiciary workers who have decided to remain on strike until Friday, May 24 - called off the general strike initiated on Friday, May 17, as the government is to vote the draft 2019 austerity budget at 13:30 (local time). Further related strikes and related protests remain possible in the coming days.

Context

Civil servants launched a nationwide strike on May 17 to denounce the draft 2019 austerity budget and possible decrease in their wages and benefits. Associated protests in several sectors have taken place across the country since April 30 as a consequence of the announced austerity budget.

Advice

Individuals in Beirut are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities