Greek public and private sector employees initiated a significant 24-hour strike, causing widespread disruption as they protest against the escalating cost of living.
The strike, which halted public transport in Athens for several hours, also affected ferry services linking the islands to the mainland. Medical personnel in state hospitals and educators joined the walkout, underscoring the breadth of dissatisfaction.
Labor unions orchestrated the strike to demand the reinstatement of collective wage agreements, which were substantially reduced following Greece’s protracted financial crisis beginning in 2010. This period saw severe economic contraction, with a quarter of the economy evaporating due to fiscal mismanagement and resultant austerity measures.
On the eve of the general strike, journalists across Greek media outlets held a parallel strike. This move was to ensure comprehensive coverage of the events, leading to a temporary cessation of news broadcasts.
Central Athens became the focal point for planned protest marches as demonstrators showed solidarity in their demands. The unions have been vocally critical of the government’s approach to tackling inflation and housing issues, which have contributed significantly to declining living standards.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s center-right government has faced scrutiny for perceived inaction in addressing these concerns. Although Greece has returned to a period of economic growth and regained investment-grade status, it still grapples with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio within the European Union.
The strike underscores ongoing tensions between the Greek workforce and government, centered around economic recovery and quality of life improvements.
Source: News4jax
