Thousands of young doctors went on strike across Tunisia today demanding higher pay.
The action is part of a broader wave of social unrest fueled by economic hardship and disruptions in public services, posing a major challenge to President Kais Saied since he consolidated power in 2021.
Protesters in white coats gathered near parliament with placards calling for dignity for doctors and the protection of hospitals. They cited low wages, outdated equipment, and shortages of medical supplies, which have driven many health professionals to leave the country for Europe and the Gulf countries.
Strikes by transport workers and bank employees have added to growing tensions, while southern cities like Gabes continue to see protests over pollution from state-owned plants.
In Tunis, hundreds of doctors in white coats gathered near the parliament building, raising placards calling for respect and for urgent action to rescue the public hospital network.
Many spoke of overwhelming workloads, severe shortages of basic supplies, and the steady deterioration of medical facilities.
“We are exhausted, underpaid and working in a system that is breaking down,” said Marwa, a young doctor who declined to provide her full name to Reuters while participating in the rally.
“If nothing changes, more doctors will leave and the crisis will only deepen,” she said, echoing fears of a continued exodus of medical professionals to Europe and the Gulf.