Greece: Travel disruptions May 30 amid general strike /update 2

Event

A general strike is set to take place across Greece on Wednesday, May 30. Significant transportation disruptions are likely. Air traffic controllers will be on strike nationwide between 10:00 and 13:00 (local time); flight delays and cancelations are to be anticipated during and following this three-hour period. Workers at the Athens suburban railway line (proastiakos) will also participate in the strike; as such, there will be no rail connection between the city of Athens and Athens International Airport (ATH). The Panhellenic Seamen's Union (PNO) has announced that there will be no ferry services throughout the day. Public transit, business, and commercial disruptions are also likely.

Demonstrations with the potential to result in traffic disruptions are to be anticipated in urban areas, notably the capital Athens and the city of Thessaloniki.

Context

Various major labor unions - including the General Confederation of Greek Labor, 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 are advised to confirm travel reservations and make alternate travel arrangements if necessary, and avoid protests due to the potential for violence.