Greece: Unionized public transport workers to stage 24-hour strike in Athens Sept. 21

Event

Unionized public transport workers in Athens will strike for 24-hours Sept. 21 to denounce the finance ministry's new bill on public utility companies. Labor unions allege that the bill will likely promote the government's plans to privatize public infrastructure and lead to the dissolving of labor unions, among other things. Public transport workers with Athens-Piraeus Electric Railways (ISAP), metro, tram, bus, and trolleybus (OASA) will suspend services and hold a demonstration in front of the Ministry of Finance beginning at 12:00. Proastiakos commuter rail service and 60 urban KTEL bus lines have announced their service will operate as usual.

The action will severely impact Athens's public transportation services and likely prompt overcrowding on available transport services, including suburban rail and taxis. Increased traffic congestion is possible as travelers resort to private vehicles. Increased employee absenteeism may occur. Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the demonstration, and related crowd control measures could cause localized disruptions. Isolated clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Confirm the status of public transport services Sept. 21. Arrange alternative transport as necessary. Allow extra time for travel and confirm rental car and taxi reservations. Avoid the demonstration as a routine security precaution.