Paraguay doctors strike for overdue raises; officials point to 2027 budget

Public sector doctors in Paraguay have initiated a widespread strike, demanding a salary adjustment that has been pending since 2012. The ongoing action has prompted an invitation from the president of the Chamber of Deputies, Raúl Latorre, for medical unions to meet with the chamber's board this Wednesday.

However, sources within the ruling party suggest that any salary increases may not be considered until the 2027 budget. Latorre stated his intention to "find alternatives and consensus" and "collaborate with this situation" by "finding mechanisms to improve the conditions of health workers." He also spoke broadly about the need for a "comprehensive reform" of the healthcare system, which he described as "simply not up to par with the needs or the satisfaction of patients."

Cristina Villalba, president of the Chamber of Deputies' Budget Commission, indicated that there is insufficient time for budget reprogramming or expansion this year. She proposed addressing the doctors' demands within the National Budget for 2027, suggesting a gradual implementation. "I believe it is important that we address this within the PGN 2027 and gradually fulfill them," Villalba stated, implying that immediate raises are not feasible.