Tunisia: Organization of Young Physicians plans to strike nationwide Feb. 11-12

Event

The Tunisian Organization of Young Physicians plans to strike nationwide Feb. 11-12. The action is in response to the government's alleged failure to honor the terms of a previous agreement and the deteriorating public healthcare system. While organizers have not announced specific march routes or protest sites, associated demonstrations will likely occur outside the Ministry of Health in Tunis and 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 COVID-19 treatment. It remains unclear if private health clinics would participate in the action; however, increased demand could disrupt services at private facilities.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely; security forces will almost certainly deploy to protest sites. 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.