The Health Workers' Union of Liberia has called for a minimum monthly take-home salary of $500 for degree-holding nurses and midwives. The union also demands the immediate employment of over 3,800 volunteer health workers and the passage of the long-delayed National Public Health Law. These demands aim to address the poor welfare and working conditions of healthcare professionals in Liberia. The union warns of unspecified action if the government fails to meet its demands.
The Health Workers' Union accused the Liberian government of neglecting and marginalizing nurses, midwives, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals. Despite their crucial role in sustaining the country's health delivery system, many healthcare workers face difficult working conditions and inadequate compensation. The union stated that thousands of qualified health professionals have remained in voluntary service for years without formal employment or regular compensation.
Meshach Karmo Jr., National Vice President for Administration of the Liberian Nurses Association, emphasized that healthcare workers sacrifice their time, sleep, family life, and personal safety to keep hospitals and clinics operational. However, their welfare, dignity, and professional advancement receive inadequate attention from the government. The union described the situation as exploitation disguised as professional experience.
Over 3,800 volunteer health professionals and other personnel are currently awaiting employment. Some have spent five, six, seven, or even eight years providing services without regular salaries or formal government employment. The union called on the government to develop a transparent, adequately funded, and time-bound employment strategy to absorb qualified volunteer health workers into the public health system.
The union also expressed frustration over inadequate salaries for professional healthcare workers. A nurse holding a Bachelor of Science degree may take home less than $300 monthly despite years of training and significant responsibilities. The union argued that such compensation is insufficient to meet basic living expenses, support families, and maintain professional standards.
The proposed 2027 National Draft Budget allocates $135,827,541 to the entire health sector, with $95,601,068 earmarked for the Ministry of Health. However, the union questioned whether this allocation provides sufficient resources to address employment and compensation challenges in the health sector. The union called for increased allocations to translate into actual employment, improved compensation, and better working conditions for healthcare professionals.
The union criticized the Liberian Senate for delaying the proposed National Public Health Law, which has remained pending for over four years. The legislation is essential to strengthening Liberia's legal and institutional framework for public health protection, disease prevention, and health security. The union urged senators to demonstrate the necessary political will and legislative responsibility to conclude the process without further delay.
Key points
- The Health Workers' Union of Liberia demands a $500 minimum monthly salary for degree-holding nurses and midwives.
- Over 3,800 volunteer health workers await employment in Liberia's public health system.
- The union criticizes the Liberian Senate for delaying the National Public Health Law.
