Tunisia: Unionized public health workers postpone nationwide strike to Jan. 27 /update 1

Event

Unionized public health workers, including doctors, pharmacists, and dentists, have postponed their nationwide strike to Jan. 27 following negotiations with the Ministry of Health. The strike, initially slated for Jan. 7, was in response to the government's alleged failure to honor the terms of a previous agreement. 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.

Unless averted, 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 would participate in the action; however, increased demand could disrupt services at private facilities.

Security forces will almost certainly deploy to protest sites. Increased 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 at different facilities. Allow additional time for travel near likely gathering sites, including public hospitals and government buildings. Avoid all protests due to possible clashes; use caution around government buildings and other popular demonstration sites.