Greek Transport Strike Halts Travel as Workers Protest

A sweeping Greek transport strike brought the country to a standstill as unions staged nationwide protests against the government’s latest labor reform bill. The 24-hour strike disrupted ferries, trains, and most of Athens’ public transport network, while thousands of demonstrators filled central squares demanding the withdrawal of what they call “anti-worker” policies.

The strike, organized by the country’s two largest unions—GSEE (private sector) and ADEDY (public sector)—coincided with parliamentary debate on the bill. The new legislation allows employees to work up to 13 hours a day across multiple jobs, raises overtime limits, and provides more flexibility in hiring and shift scheduling.

Labor Reforms Under Fire

Union leaders argue that the reforms erode long-standing worker protections and risk exacerbating exploitation, particularly in sectors already struggling with low wages and long hours. Critics say that the law undermines collective bargaining and blurs the line between flexibility and abuse.

The government insists that the Greek transport strike is a political maneuver, claiming the new rules will modernize Greece’s outdated labor code and boost competitiveness. Officials argue that the reforms introduce safeguards against unfair dismissal for workers who refuse overtime and help align Greek labor law with EU standards for a “24/7 economy.”

Impact Across Greece

The Greek transport strike caused major disruptions across the country:

• Ferries remained docked at Piraeus and other ports, cutting off island routes.
• Intercity and suburban trains were suspended.
• Metro and tram services in Athens operated only during limited hours.
• Public offices and schools also saw widespread absenteeism.

Airports remained open, but access to ground transport was limited, forcing passengers to seek alternative routes.

Broader Economic Implications

The strike highlights Greece’s ongoing struggle to strike a balance between fiscal growth and social fairness after years of austerity. Analysts warn that continued labor unrest could delay investment plans and strain tourism logistics. Unless concessions are made, union leaders have vowed to escalate protests, turning the Greek transport strike into a symbol of national resistance against labor deregulation.