Country to grind to a halt due to strikes
Greek labor unions, including the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE), the Civil Servants’ Confederation (ADEDY), and the All-Workers Militant Front (PAME), have announced a nationwide 24-hour strike scheduled for Wednesday.
The coordinated action aims to protest the government’s economic policies, particularly the impact of inflation, stagnant wages, and inadequate social protections. The unions are calling for significant wage increases, enhanced labor protections, and improved public services, particularly in healthcare and education.
The strike is expected to significantly disrupt public services across the country. Key sectors, including public hospitals, schools, and various government offices, will participate, leading to closures and limited operations.
Transportation will also be affected, with limited bus, metro and rail services during specific hours. The maritime sector will join the strike, leaving ferries docked at ports for the day. Notably, employees in banks, public administration and local government offices will also join the protest.
Major demonstrations are planned in central Athens, with gatherings organized by different unions in key locations such as Syntagma Square and University Propylaea. Similar rallies are expected in other major cities like Thessaloniki and Patra.
The unions emphasize that this action is a push for fair wages and the reinstatement of collective bargaining rights, which they argue have been eroded in recent years due to austerity measures and economic reforms. The strike follows a series of labor protests across Europe, reflecting widespread discontent over rising living costs and government responses to economic challenges.
Kathimerini
