On October 1, 2026, a general meeting was held at the headquarters of the Tunisian Company for Electricity and Gas (STEG) in Tunis, attended by workers and executives under the supervision of the Regional Union of Labor in Tunis. The meeting was also attended by Nizar Semri, the union's general secretary, and Monir Chaari, a member of the executive office. The meeting was called to discuss the social situation within the company, which has been marked by growing tensions due to deteriorating working conditions and a decline in benefits.
The meeting participants expressed concern over a recent surge in fatal workplace accidents in the sector, which they attributed to the company's management failing to provide necessary safety equipment and protective gear for workers carrying out hazardous tasks. They called for urgent action to ensure occupational health and safety, and held the general management responsible for the delays and negligence in providing the necessary equipment.
The attendees also denounced the rollback of social benefits, rejecting the selective application of certain measures to some executives, as outlined in a directive published on September 30, 2026. They demanded an immediate and comprehensive review of the wage structure to reflect the erosion of purchasing power. The participants stressed that the current situation is unacceptable and that urgent action is needed to address their concerns.
The meeting came as workers are increasingly frustrated with the lack of dialogue and negotiation with the company's management. Participants warned that if their demands are not met, they will be forced to take strike action and engage in escalating protests. The union representatives emphasized that the workers are determined to defend their rights and interests.
The company's management has yet to respond to the workers' demands, leading to concerns that the situation may escalate further. The workers are seeking improvements in their working conditions, benefits, and wages, which they believe are essential to ensuring their safety and well-being. The situation is being closely watched by industry observers and labor unions.
The potential strike action by STEG workers could have significant implications for Tunisia's energy sector and economy. The company is a major player in the country's energy market, and any disruption to its operations could lead to power outages and shortages. The government and other stakeholders are likely to be closely monitoring the situation and seeking a resolution to the dispute.
The workers' union has vowed to continue pressing for their demands to be met, and has called on the company's management to engage in meaningful dialogue to find a solution. The situation remains tense, with no clear resolution in sight. The key issues at stake include safety concerns, benefits, and wages, which are critical to the workers' well-being and the company's operations.
Key points
- Workers at Tunisia's STEG company are threatening to go on strike over safety concerns, benefits, and wages.
- The company's management has been accused of failing to provide necessary safety equipment and protective gear for workers.
- The potential strike action could have significant implications for Tunisia's energy sector and economy.
