Sri Lanka: Doctors' on strike nationwide as of Dec. 22; emergency services remain available /update 1

Event

The Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) has extended its nationwide strike as of Dec. 22. The action, which began the previous day, is part of an ongoing campaign to demand improved working conditions. Talks between GMOA and the government ended without resolution Dec. 21, and the union has threatened to continue the strike until authorities propose satisfactory solutions to their concerns. The strike is impacting services at public hospitals, with delays reported nationwide. However, doctors providing emergency, maternity, children's, cancer, and kidney treatments continue to work.

Doctors could protest during the action; demonstrations are most likely near government hospitals and buildings, especially the Ministry of Health. Authorities will likely increase security at any gatherings that occur. Localized business and transport disruptions are possible near any demonstration. While any protests will probably be peaceful, clashes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments. If possible, contact healthcare facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary among hospitals and clinics. Avoid any demonstrations as a precaution. Plan for possible localized disruptions near any protest site.