Finland: Various unions plan nationwide 24-hour strike Oct. 3

Event

JHL, the largest welfare union in Finland, is organizing a 24-hour strike on Wednesday, October 3. Various private and public sector unions representing industrial, service, food, and power sector workers have also announced their support for the strike. Hundreds of thousands of workers are expected to participate across the country. Metro and tram services in Helsinki may be significantly disrupted or suspended during the work stoppage as most public transport conductors are members of JHL. Daycare and health services may also be disrupted nationwide.

Context

The unions are protesting a proposed bill that will allegedly make it easier for companies with fewer than 20 employees to fire workers. JHL and other unions have also implemented bans on members working overtime or utilizing shift swaps.

Advice

Individuals in Finland, particularly in Helsinki, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate public transportation disruptions, and avoid any demonstrations as a precaution.