Tunisian Organization of Young Doctors (OTJM) Announces Publication of Official Document Defining Exemption Conditions
The Tunisian Organization of Young Doctors (OTJM) announced on Monday the publication of an official document defining the conditions for exemption, postponement, and maintenance of residence during the civil service year, in accordance with the agreement reached on July 3, 2025, with the Ministry of Health. This agreement also provided for a series of additional rights for young doctors.
Publication of the Document
In a statement addressed to the general public, the OTJM indicated that the publication of this document aims to inform public opinion, young doctors, and all concerned parties about the actual content of the agreement and to ensure its application in a spirit of responsibility. However, the organization denounced the fact that the publication of the final document was canceled without clear explanation.
Background on the Agreement
The OTJM recalled that the July 3, 2025, agreement provided for the creation of a national mixed commission bringing together the Ministries of Health and Defense, the Council of the Order of Physicians, as well as representatives of the organization. This commission held several official meetings that resulted in the drafting of a "clear and detailed" document fixing the conditions for exemption, postponement, and residential stability for the civil service year, including social cases mentioned by the Minister of Health during his intervention before the Assembly of People's Representatives on November 19, 2025.
Concerns Over Document Withdrawal
According to the OTJM, the withdrawal of the final version of this document puts the Minister's statements in total contradiction with what was decided within the mixed commission, particularly regarding social cases. The organization emphasizes that respecting agreements and formalizing the results of negotiations in writing constitute the only real guarantee of the rights of the parties involved, allowing for the avoidance of any backtracking or improvised decisions based on "case-by-case" treatment.
Commitment to Institutional Framework
The OTJM also affirms that this approach demonstrates the willingness of young doctors to work within the framework of state institutions and in respect of the laws in force. As a reminder, on November 19, resident and intern doctors observed a general strike and a sit-in in front of Parliament, in parallel with the discussion of the Ministry of Health's budget, to denounce the non-application of the agreement reached on July 3, 2025.
Conclusion
The publication of the official document by the OTJM is a significant step towards clarifying the conditions for exemption, postponement, and maintenance of residence during the civil service year. However, the organization's concerns over the withdrawal of the final document version highlight the need for transparency and respect for agreements in ensuring the rights of young doctors.
