Greece: Unions representing port and ferry workers call for 48-hour strike Feb. 23-24

Event

Unions representing ferry workers, port engineers, and other maritime workers will strike nationwide 0001 Feb. 23-2359 Feb. 24. The strike has been organized to denounce regulations that impact collective bargaining agreements, among other issues. Ship towage services, container terminal services, and commercial port services are likely to be heavily disrupted by the industrial action; these services may be entirely suspended in some ports. Additionally, ferry services will also be disrupted; several services have already been canceled, and further cancellations and delays are likely.

Residual ferry and port service disruptions are possible even after the strike ends. Strike participants may stage demonstrations near port facilities as the industrial actions continue; authorities will likely increase security near potential protest venues as a precaution.

Advice

Confirm maritime shipments and port-handling operations through early Feb. 25. Allow additional time when routing freight through Greek ports during and immediately after the strike action. Consider alternative shipping methods for critical freights. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine precaution and to mitigate possible disruption.