Greek public sector workers announce nationwide strike for May 13

Public sector workers across Greece are set to stage a nationwide 24-hour strike on May 13 following a call by the Executive Committee of ADEDY, Greece’s leading public sector trade union federation.

The union said the strike is aimed at protesting government policies linked to rising living costs, wage stagnation, privatization efforts, and what it described as the weakening of public services.

Rising Cost of Living and Wage Concerns
In its announcement, ADEDY argued that workers in Greece are increasingly struggling with soaring housing costs, expensive energy bills, food inflation, and healthcare expenses, while salary increases remain insufficient to keep pace with inflation.

The union accused the government of pursuing policies that favor economic elites over ordinary workers and warned that public sector employees are facing growing financial insecurity.

According to ADEDY, many civil servants’ salaries now cover only part of monthly living expenses, while understaffing in public institutions continues to place additional pressure on employees.

Opposition to Privatization and Labor Reforms
The federation also criticized ongoing reforms in public administration, particularly in healthcare and education, claiming that reduced public investment and staff shortages are paving the way for increased privatization.

Union leaders further opposed proposed disciplinary reforms and discussions surrounding the removal of permanent employment protections for civil servants, arguing that public employees are being unfairly blamed for systemic problems within state institutions.

ADEDY said recent labor mobilizations in sectors including social security services, courts, and municipalities demonstrate growing frustration among workers nationwide.

Key Demands
Among the main demands announced by the union are:

• Protection of permanent public sector employment
• Restoration of the 13th and 14th monthly salaries
• Real wage increases to address inflation
• Abolition of the 2% unemployment contribution
• Recruitment of permanent staff in healthcare, education, and social security
• Increased public healthcare funding
• Opposition to privatization policies
• Repeal of what the union describes as anti-labor legislation
• Protest Rally Planned in Athens

ADEDY called on public sector employees, unemployed citizens, and young people to participate in a mass rally scheduled for May 13 at Klafthmonos Square in Athens at 10:30 a.m., with additional demonstrations expected across the country.

The union framed the strike as part of a broader struggle for social justice, workers’ dignity, and the defense of public services in Greece.