Portugal: Public service staff to launch nationwide strike January 31

Event

Several public sector unions have called for a nationwide strike starting on Friday, January 31, in response to the proposed 2020 state budget. Teachers and hospital employees will notably be part of the work stoppage. Other public service employees may join the strike action, as firemen also announced their participation. The strike may also continue into Saturday, February 1, depending on individual unions. A demonstration is planned in Lisbon on Friday starting at 14:30 (local time) at the Marquês do Pombal Square.

Associated protests remain possible in the coming days. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are possible in the vicinity of all demonstrations.

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.