Public employees strike goes on as wage demands go unmet

Public sector employees have been on an open strike for weeks now to demand an adjustment of their salaries, amid dire living conditions in Lebanon.

The strike has paralyzed all public administrations, frustrating the Lebanese citizens who need to get an identity card, a diploma for university or a driving license.

Authorities say they do not have the means to increase the salaries as requested by the employees. Instead they suggested to increase the employees' daily transport allowance and to give them a monthly financial aid.

Employees say their salaries barely cover transport costs as Lebanon's currency has lost around 90 percent of its value. They refused the government's offer, accusing authorities of taking their demands lightly.

Amid a worldwide surge in fuel prices, wheat shortages, power cuts, and limited access to their savings in banks, tens of thousands of Lebanese have lost their jobs, and many have left the country.