14 Mar 2023 | 01:16 PM UTC
Greece: Further strikes and protests over train collision are likely nationwide through mid-March /update 4
Further protests likely in Greece through mid-March in reaction to fatal train collision in Tempi. Multi-sector strike planned for March 16.
Event
Additional strikes and protests are likely in Greece through mid-March in response to a deadly train collision near Tempi, Larissa, late Feb. 28. Public and private sector unions have called for a nationwide general strike on March 16 in support of the Panhellenic Federation of Railway Employees (POS). The GSEE and ADEDY labor unions jointly represent up to two million workers, who may heed the call to take industrial action.
On March 14, the EEEKE union representing air traffic controllers announced that its members would join the 24-hour strike on March 16.
Hellenic Trains services are likely to remain intermittently disrupted as the POS union continues a series of short-notice 24-48 hour strikes to protest over the rail crash.
Transport and business disruptions are likely in the coming days, especially on the train network. Flights delays and cancellations are likely on March 16 due to industrial action by air traffic controllers. Demonstrations remain highly likely nationwide. Authorities will likely deploy a heavy police presence around all related gatherings that may materialize. Clashes have occurred between activists and security forces at previous protests relating to the train collision; further clashes are likely at future related demonstrations. Police can be quick to resort to tear gas and other riot control methods against unruly crowds, based on recent responses to related protests. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence but would face a significant indirect threat of physical harm.
Context
A previous nationwide strike on March 8 across multiple sectors led to significant disruption to public services, transport, and business operations in Greece.
On March 12, over 10,000 protesters demonstrated outside the parliament building in Athens, to denounce the government's alleged negligence that led to the collision. Additional demonstrations organized by labor unions, opposition political parties, students, and other activist groups relating to the collision are likely in Greek urban centers through mid-March.
Advice
Confirm schedules if traveling by rail in Greece through mid-March; make alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Confirm all transport reservations as well as public and private sector appointments in Greece March 16. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
