Greece: General strike on May 30 /update 1

Event

A general strike is set to take place across Greece on Wednesday, May 30. Demonstrations are to be anticipated in major cities. Workers at the Athens suburban railway line (proastiakos) will participate in the strike; as such, there will be no rail connection between the city of Athens and Athens International Airport (ATH). The Panhellenic Seamen's Union (PNO) has announced that there will be no ferry services throughout the day. Other transportation, business, and service disruptions are also likely.

Context

Major labor unions, including the General Confederation of Greek Labor, the Civil Servants' Confederation (ADEDY), and Panhellenic Seamen's Union (PNO), have called on their members to take part. The strike is being held to protest a series of reforms implemented by the government, which include additional austerity measures, tax hikes, and evaluations of public sector workers, which unions fear could serve as a tool to fire workers.

Advice

Individuals in Greece are advised to confirm travel reservations, prepare for limited ferry services and to make other travel arrangements if necessary, and avoid protests due to the potential for violence.