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30 May 2018 | 08:33 PM UTC

Greece: Public transportation strike in Athens May 31 /update 3

Metro, bus, trolleys, and tram services to be affected by public transportation strike in Athens May 31; associated protests possible in Athens

Warning

Event

Public transport workers in Athens are expected to strike on Thursday, May 31, resulting in disruptions to metro, bus, and trolley services in the capital. Bus and trolley workers are expected to stage a 24-hour strike on Thursday; Metro lines 2 and 3 are expected to only run between 09:00 and 21:00 (local time) and the ISAP (Metro Line 1) is expected to run from 08:00 to 21:00. The Athens Tram is scheduled to stop service at 21:00.

Related demonstrations and possible traffic disruptions are anticipated in Athens during the strike.

Context

Various major labor unions - including the General Confederation of Greek Labor (GSEE), the Civil Servants' Confederation (ADEDY), and Panhellenic Seamen's Union (PNO) - have called on their members to take part in the strike. The action is being held to protest a series of reforms implemented by the government, which include additional austerity measures, tax hikes, and evaluations of public sector workers, which unions fear could serve as a tool to fire workers.

Advice

Individuals in Greece, particularly those in Athens, are advised to confirm travel reservations, make alternative travel arrangements if necessary, and avoid protests due to the potential for violence.