Pharmacy workers strike in The Hague, unions demand 6 percent pay raise

Pharmacy workers across the Netherlands are set to go on strike later today, with thousands expected to gather from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Malieveld in The Hague. The action, organized by labor unions FNV and CNV, is the latest in ongoing efforts to secure higher wages and reduced workloads for pharmacy workers.

“For nine weeks now, employees in the pharmacy sector across the country have been taking action for higher wages and reduced workloads,” said FNV representative Ralph Smeets.

Union leaders are demanding a 6 percent pay increase, a minimum wage of 16 euros per hour, and recognition for all work hours. They argue the current offer of a 2 percent raise falls below inflation and fails to address high workloads.

Thousands of employees are expected to participate, and pharmacies nationwide will inform patients about closures in advance. The unions have coordinated with employers to make sure that emergency care remains available during the strike, with at least one pharmacy in each region staying open in case of an emergency.

This action follows a series of regional strikes in eleven provinces, except Flevoland.