Finland: Unionized workers including air traffic controllers, airport ground staff, and railway workers to strike nationwide Feb. 1-2 /update 1

Unions will launch a multisectoral strike across Finland Feb. 1-2, including in the air traffic control and railway sectors. Labor unions are denouncing government employment reforms, including the right to strike. Finnish air operators have warned of widespread flight cancellations and delays. Railway workers will strike from 00:01-23:59 Feb. 2, and authorities announced that all long-distance and commuter trains during the strike time are canceled; however, night trains will not be impacted.

Additionally, striking workers plan to protest at Senate Square in Helsinki from 12:00-14:00 Feb. 1. How many participants will attend is unclear.

Unless averted, the industrial action will cause significant disruptions to flights to and from Finland, including widespread cancellations, delays, and major train travel disruptions. Passengers will likely face delays and congestion at airports, and lengthy airport processes. Disruptions will likely continue in the hours following the strike as services return to normal. Train cancellations and disruptions will likely linger through early Feb. 3. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near Senate Square in Helsinki Feb. 1. Low-level confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out near Senate Square Feb. 1. Additional protests are possible in public squares and near government buildings throughout the country.