Tunisian Bank Workers Strike Amid Economic Strain

Tunisian bank workers commenced a two-day strike on Monday,disrupting all financial transactions as they pressed for wage increases.

The action,organized by the influential UGTT union,followed the collapse of negotiations with the banking Council,which represents both public and private banks.

Long queues formed at cash machines,though many appeared to be malfunctioning,leaving customers frustrated. The union argues that soaring living costs have severely diminished workers’ purchasing power and insists that immediate salary adjustments are necessary.

The strike unfolds against a backdrop of deep economic distress in Tunisia,marked by sluggish growth,dwindling foreign investment and funding,and public debt exceeding 80% of GDP. The nation is also contending with shortages of essential commodities,exacerbating the financial pressures facing households and institutions alike. The walkout underscores growing labour discontent and highlights broader concerns about the sustainability of Tunisia’s economic framework in the face of mounting fiscal and social challenges.