Tunisia: Physicians unions plan nationwide protests and strike Dec. 8.

Event

Doctors affiliated with the National Council of the Order of Physicians plan to stage a nationwide strike and demonstrations in Tunisia on Dec. 8. The labor action is in response to the death of a doctor in an elevator accident at Jendouba regional hospital. Physicians are demanding that authorities improve working conditions in health facilities and hospitals across the country. Several other health unions and associations will probably participate in the protests. While organizers have not announced specific march routes or protest sites, demonstrations will likely occur outside the Ministry of Health in Tunis, as well as near hospitals and government buildings throughout the country.

The strike will likely affect non-emergency health services at all government clinics and hospitals; facilities will continue to provide emergency and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) treatment. It remains unclear if private health clinics will participate in the action; however, increased demand could disrupt services at private facilities.

Security forces will almost certainly deploy to protest sites. Heightened security measures, as well as localized transport disruptions, are likely. Clashes between authorities and protesters may materialize if demonstrators refuse orders to disperse or are overly disruptive.

Advice

Confirm all appointments at medical facilities for the duration of the strike. Be prepared for delays at hospitals; call in advance, if possible, as conditions will likely vary by facility. Allow additional time for travel near potential gathering sites, including public hospitals and government buildings. Avoid all protests as a standard precaution.