03 Dec 2019 | 05:33 PM UTC
Finland: Prime Minister Antti Rinne resigns December 3
Prime Minister Rinne resigns on December 3 following postal strike; associated political demonstrations possible
Event
Prime Minister Antti Rinne formally resigned on Tuesday, December 3. Following his announcement, the Cabinet, which consists of a coalition of five political parties, also tendered its resignation. Lawmakers will reportedly designate a successor next week. In a press conference Tuesday, Rinne said he decided to resign after losing the support of the Center Party over his handling of a two-week strike of the country's state-owned postal service Posti in November. The strike led to a one-day solidarity strike by the country's transportation sector, including national flag carrier Finnair, which forced the cancelation of hundreds of flights.
Associated political rallies are possible in the coming days. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected in the event of protests.
Context
The Post and Logistics Union (PAU) launched a strike on November 11 after negotiations broke down with Posti on a new collective bargaining agreement. Multiple employee unions in Finland consequently announced measures to support some 9000 postal workers who had been on strike.
Advice
Individuals in Finland are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for transportation disruptions around protest sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
