Hospital de Clínicas Workers Announce 24-Hour Strike for October 2nd Over University Budget

Strike Announced for October 2nd

The Unión de Trabajadores del Hospital de Clínicas (UTHC) has announced a 24-hour strike scheduled for Thursday, October 2, 2025. The measure, decided on September 24, aims to protest the proposed university budget in Uruguay and will impact the Hospital de Clínicas in Montevideo. The UTHC, a union founded in 1963 with 8,000 affiliated members, is part of the broader PIT-CNT labor confederation.

Defense of University Budget at Core of Demands

The primary motivation behind the strike is the 'defense of the university budget.' The UTHC, in conjunction with the inter-union university group, has been advocating for the fulfillment of campaign promises regarding the budget for the Universidad de la República (Udelar) and public education. According to the union, the current budget proposal 'does not approach the 6+1% committed, and even implies setbacks.'

Udelar had requested an additional 330 million USD to be allocated progressively until 2029. However, the government's proposed budget is expected to grant only 12 million USD, a significant disparity. This shortfall is projected to lead to a decrease in the percentage of GDP allocated to Udelar, from 0.8% to 0.73% by 2029. Rector Héctor Cancela of Udelar has stated that the allocated resources are insufficient to address the growing student enrollment, infrastructure needs, and staff salaries.

Impact on Hospital Services

During the 24-hour strike, the Hospital de Clínicas will operate under a 'minimum guard' system across all sectors. This arrangement is in accordance with the existing strike instructions and the agreement established between AFFUR, UTHC, and Udelar. The union has clarified that 'situations of urgency and emergency' will be attended to in all cases, and the gremial guard will be responsible for direct tasks concerning hospitalized patients.

Broader Context of Educational Conflict

This strike is part of a larger movement by educational unions, including teachers, staff, and students, who have been preparing a series of measures, such as strikes and potential occupations, in response to the budget situation. The UTHC itself has engaged in previous industrial actions, including a 36-hour strike in June 2025 over working conditions and staff shortages, and another in March 2025 following the death of a worker.