In their first major strike in a decade, pharmacists across France stopped work on Thursday to draw attention to drug shortages, forced closures and potential restrictions on online sales. They also want higher pay.
The strike has united all representatives of the profession including unions, pharmacist groups and students. Striking is not a common practice among pharmacists, with the last significant strike taking place 10 years ago.
Unions predict that around 90 percent of pharmacies will close their doors, with that figure rising to 100 percent in several provincial cities such as Ajaccio, Nice, Avignon, Mâcon and Roanne.
In many places, only those pharmacies asked to ensure mandatory pharmaceutical services will remain open. Many pharmacies have notified their customers via email, screens or posters in their windows.
"The main concern is the disappearance of pharmacies," economically weakened in both rural areas and sometimes in cities, Philippe Besset, president of the French Federation of Pharmaceutical Unions (FSPF), told French press agency AFP.
According to the group, France has lost nearly 2,000 pharmacies over the past 10 years, leaving only around 20,000 operating nationwide.
The unions are also demanding a pay increase starting in 2025, citing the impact of inflation on their expenses. They see the latest proposals by health insurance organisations in the ongoing contractual negotiations that began at the end of 2023 as "insufficient".
Representatives are scheduled to meet with health insurance officials on 5 June for a "conclusive meeting", according to Besset.
Protests are planned across the country on Thursday, particularly in university towns, with rally points outside prefectures, regional health agencies (ARS) and local health insurance offices (CPAM).
(with newswires)
