German pharmacists stage mass strike for fair pay on March 23, 2026
Pharmacists across Germany will close their shops and take to the streets on March 23, 2026. The nationwide protests aim to push for economic support and long-delayed fee increases promised by Health Minister Nina Warken. Organisers are urging as many colleagues as possible to join the central rally in Düsseldorf that day.
The North Rhine Pharmacists' Association (AVNR) has arranged free bus services to help members attend the demonstration. Buses will run from key locations across the North Rhine region, with seats still available for those wishing to travel. Participants are expected to gather at Düsseldorf's Burgplatz from 11:00, with the main rally taking place between 12:00 and 13:00.
AVNR Chairman Thomas Preis has stressed the need for unity and solidarity among pharmacists. The protest follows earlier large-scale rallies, including one in Dresden in November 2023, where 3,500 pharmacists from five eastern states gathered. Another major demonstration took place in Stuttgart, drawing thousands from Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. The upcoming action is part of a broader campaign to secure better financial conditions for the sector. Organisers hope the show of strength will force the government to act on its commitments.
The demonstration will see pharmacies shut their doors as staff travel to Düsseldorf. Free transport has been arranged to ensure high attendance, with the AVNR coordinating buses from across North Rhine. The rally's success will depend on turnout, as the sector pushes for concrete changes to its funding.
