Senegal: Unionized medical workers staging nationwide strike through at least Oct. 18

Medical workers affiliated with the Collective of Specialized Doctors, Pharmacists, and Dental Surgeons of Senegal (COMES) are staging a 72-hour nationwide strike through at least Oct. 18. The purpose of the work stoppage is to demand higher pay and improved benefits. Related demonstrations may materialize near medical facilities and government offices across the country, including in the vicinities of hospitals, clinics, and Ministry of Health and Social Action buildings. Strike organizers may extend the work stoppage on short notice if governmental authorities do not satisfy their demands.

Strike organizers have threatened to shut down all hospital activities during the labor action. While the work stoppage will probably disrupt the provision of nonemergency medical services at most hospitals, such medical facilities will likely continue to provide a minimal level of service for emergency treatment. The labor action may also increase wait times for available medical services. Increased security and localized transport disruptions will likely affect areas that are subject to related protest activity. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.