Health Workers in Ethiopia Demand Urgent Reforms Amid Mounting Pressures

Health professionals across Ethiopia have initiated widespread demonstrations, voicing demands for improved salaries, benefits, and working conditions. The Ethiopian Health Professionals Association has called on the government to address these concerns promptly, emphasising the urgency of the situation.

The demonstrations, characterised as pre-strike actions, have seen health workers from various regions participating. Placards bearing messages such as “Enough with the silence!” and “We demand an urgent solution!” have been prominently displayed. These actions are part of a broader movement advocating for the rights and welfare of health professionals in the country.

In a statement issued on 7 May 2025, the EHPA highlighted the legitimacy of the health workers’ demands and urged the government to provide immediate solutions. The association noted that it had previously submitted these concerns through appropriate legal channels but had not received satisfactory responses. It emphasised the importance of addressing these issues to prevent further complications for the nation.

The health professionals have outlined a series of demands, including salary adjustments to align with East African standards, proportional overtime compensation, housing and transport allowances, and legal accountability for mistreatment by administrative or security bodies. They also called for policy reforms to improve the overall healthcare system and working conditions.

An open letter from the Ethiopian Health Professionals Movement set a deadline of 11 May for the Ministry of Health to respond to twelve key demands. The letter warned that failure to address these concerns would lead to appropriate legal measures. The health workers expressed their frustration over years of sacrifice without adequate compensation or recognition, stating that many continue to serve out of public trust and professional ethics rather than fair remuneration.

The movement has gained momentum through social media campaigns using hashtags like #HealthWorkersMatter and #PayHealthWorkersFairly. These campaigns have brought attention to the challenges faced by health professionals, including low salaries, inadequate housing, lack of medical coverage, and conditions that compromise their dignity.

Reports indicate that some health professionals have died due to lack of treatment, while others have been forced to seek public assistance. The letter from the health workers described the situation as a common reality, highlighting the dire circumstances they face.

The EHPA has expressed support for the movement, recognising the health professionals’ efforts to secure their rights. However, it also emphasised the need for the movement to proceed responsibly and without causing harm to the country and the community. The association urged the government to stop neglecting the health workers’ concerns and to provide appropriate attention and responses.