Finland: Various labor unions to strike through Feb. 16 /update 1

Various labor unions plan to strike through Feb. 16 in opposition to government plans to reform labor law and cut benefits. The action is largely being led by the Trade Union for the Public and Welfare Sectors (JHL). Some of the planned actions are listed below.

Education sector
Early childhood education and care sectors will be impacted in various cities Feb. 13-14. Increased absenteeism among employees who are the parents or guardians of school-aged children is possible.

Electricity
The Finnish Electrical Workers' Union has announced strike action of its members at hydro- and nuclear-powered plants from Feb. 14-16. Approximately 500 members will participate. Electricity production disruption is unlikely; however, should a technical problem occur disruptions could follow.

Food
The Finnish Food Workers' Federation has indicated that workers would strike at times between Feb. 11 and 16. Some minor disruptions to the food supply are possible.

Logistics
The PAM union has announced a strike for workers in 19 logistics centers nationwide Feb. 14-16. The strike will involve around 10,000 people. Some supply chain disruptions (particularly to supermarkets) are possible.

Transport
Rail workers will strike on a staggered basis Feb. 12-13. The rail company VR has stated that all long-distance, night, and commuter trains will be canceled on Feb. 12. Further rail disruptions are anticipated in Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere from Feb. 14-15. Bus services will also be impacted in these areas during this period. Increased demand for alternative transport is likely on strike days.

Industrial workers
Industrial workers affiliated with Finland's Industrial Union (Teollisuusliitto) plan to strike nationwide from Feb. 14-16; the action involves around 60,000 workers. The strike will affect most industries, including freight transport and industrial maintenance.

For a full list of planned strikes, please click here.

Business and transport disruptions are likely throughout Finland for the duration of the actions. Additional sectors could announce strikes in the coming days. Striking workers are likely to stage pickets near their places of work. Authorities could deploy increased security to monitor possible gatherings of striking workers. Associated transport disruptions could occur near protest sites.