Greece: Athens public transit workers to strike January 12

Event

Subway and trolleybus workers in Athens will hold a 24-hour strike on Friday, January 12. It is reported that there will be no service on subway lines 2 and 3 due to the strike. Reduced service on other lines should also be anticipated throughout the day. Increased road congestion and demand for other modes of transportation should also be expected as people seek out alternatives to the subway and trolleybus, and demonstrations in relation to the work stoppage are possible.

Context

The strike has been planned to express opposition to a bill being considered by the Greek parliament that would require unions to have at least 50 percent of members present to declare a strike. The bill is part of a highly unpopular package of bailout-mandate reforms proposed by the government.

The anti-austerity movement in Greece began in 2010 following the imposition of austerity measures, including a series of tax raises and public spending cuts, aimed at remedying the government-debt crisis following the 2008 financial crisis. These measures were widely opposed by the general public, prompting various demonstrations and sit-ins throughout the country. Police have been known to use violence and tear gas to disperse protesters.

Advice

Travelers are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to seek alternative means of transportation, and to allow for extra time to reach their destinations on January 12.