Sri Lanka: Unionized health workers plan to strike nationwide Jan. 10-11

Unionized healthcare workers plan to participate in a 48-hour strike across Sri Lanka from Jan. 10 to demand higher allowances. Workers from 10 unions will join the action, though exact participation numbers remain unclear. Paramedic workers are reported to have joined the work stoppage, potentially impacting ambulance services. Organizers may prolong the strike at short notice; recurrent work stoppages are probable in the coming weeks.

Unless averted, disruptions to healthcare services are likely nationwide during the work stoppage. Strike participants could protest during the action; demonstrations are most likely near government hospitals and buildings, including the Ministry of Health in Colombo. 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.