Lebanon: Pharmacists to strike nationwide until 14:00 May 24

Event

The Committee of Pharmacy Owners in Lebanon has announced a nationwide strike May 24 to denounce supply shortages of essential medicines and demand a new drug price scale. An associated sit-in protest is scheduled to be held outside the Ministry of Health in Beirut at 09:30. Organizers have indicated that pharmacies will begin operating at 14:00.

The work stoppage will likely affect nonemergency medical services for the duration of the strike. Striking pharmacists may also hold demonstrations outside public hospitals. Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are possible near any protests that may materialize.

Advice

Ensure sufficient supplies of essential medicines. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution; exercise caution around government buildings, prominent public parks and squares, and other popular rally sites. Allow additional time for travel near likely gathering locations.