Finland: Unionized freight workers to strike nationwide March 11-24

Freight transport workers represented by several major labor unions plan to strike across Finland from 06:00 March 11 to 06:00 March 24. The purpose of the industrial action is to demand improved working conditions following recently failed negotiations between government and labor. The strike will involve around 7,000 workers, employed in the freight trucking, transport control, maritime shipping port, and rail freight sectors. The work stoppage could also impact logistics facilities and infrastructure, as well as oil refinery terminals. It is unclear whether or not the strike will directly affect air freight operations. Labor leaders assert that the action will not impact passenger transport, however.

Striking workers could stage low-level demonstrations or pickets near their places of employment or government buildings. Authorities could deploy increased security to monitor any such gatherings that may materialize. Disruptions to freight shipping could extend for several days after the strike ends as service providers work through their backlogs.