Greece: Unionized air traffic controllers suspend planned strike Sept. 21; nationwide civil servants strike to proceed /update 2

Event

The Union of Air Traffic Controllers (EEEKE) has suspended plans to conduct a strike concurrently with a nationwide civil servants work stoppage Sept. 21 after authorities ruled the proposed air traffic controller action illegal. Nevertheless, the Confederation of Greek Civil Servants Trade Unions (ADEDY) will move forward with a 24-hour strike and protests nationwide to denounce the latest government labor bill. Unionized civil servants will protest in Klathmonos Square and Syntagma Square in Athens from 10:30 on Sept. 21. Additional related protests are likely in major cities, including Thessaloniki, Patras, Chalkida, and Chania. The strike will likely impact all public service sectors.

Disruptions to public services, including ground transport and administrative services, are likely on Sept. 21 and may continue into the following day. Authorities will likely deploy increased security around all related gatherings that may materialize. Police could resort to the use of tear gas and other riot control methods if demonstrtors become unruly.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Confirm schedules if traveling by public transport. Confirm business appointments with government agencies. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. Heed instructions from authorities.