Athens, Greece – November 20, 2024 – Greece is currently experiencing a nationwide 24-hour general strike, affecting both the public and private sectors, leading to significant work stoppages in several key areas. The largest unions, including GSEE (Federation of Private Sector Workers) and ADEDY (Federation of Public Sector Workers), have called for massive mobilizations and work stoppages, demanding urgent actions to address the economic and social challenges facing Greek workers.
Main Demands of the Strike
The unions are calling for:
- Increased nominal wages, to combat inflation and improve living standards.
- Reorganization of labor relations, including the restoration of the Collective Labor Agreement, which is one of the primary demands.
- Affordable housing, with a call for the government to boost investments in social housing programs, including a fund of €1.5 billion to help citizens access affordable housing.
Another key demand is support for the healthcare sector, where unions have emphasized that 49% of patients cannot find a doctor and 24% are unable to undergo necessary tests, due to staff shortages and resource constraints.
Protests and Rallies
As part of the strike, there will be a major rally at Klathmonos Square in Athens at 11:00 AM, with another gathering at Propylaia at 10:30 AM, organized by PAME (All-Workers Militant Front).
The strike will also severely impact public transport. Taxi services and mass transit will be disrupted, and ferry boats are at a standstill starting from dawn, as the Panhellenic Seafarers Federation joins the 24-hour strike. However, the Athens Taxi Drivers’ Union (SATA) has stated that taxis will continue to operate, opting out of the strike.
Healthcare Criticism
The Federation of Hospital Doctors of Greece (OENGE) has sharply criticized the state of healthcare, pointing out that health structures have shrunk by 40% since 2009 and the medical staff has been halved. Many doctors and nurses are overworked and exhausted, while private healthcare groups continue to see soaring profits.
International Support
In solidarity with the strike, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) has expressed support for GSEE’s demands, calling for widespread backing across Europe to address the economic and social crisis in Greece.
Strike Conclusion
The strike will continue until midnight on Wednesday, hoping that the demands of the unions will be addressed by the Greek government. The protest aims to draw attention to the housing crisis, workers’ rights, and the need for wage increases and improved working conditions.
