On Wednesday, November 20, the GSEE, ADEDY, and PNO have called a 24-hour general strike, demanding urgent government action to address soaring prices that are strangling workers.
GSEE Statement on the Strike
The Greek General Confederation of Labour (GSEE) announced the strike in protest against the lack of meaningful government measures to tackle issues impacting private-sector workers. According to their statement:
- Strike Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
- Objective: To rally mass, unified participation through an informational campaign across Greece, focusing on Athens and Thessaloniki.
- Key Concerns: A decline in purchasing power (down by 8% since 2019) and inadequate solutions like subsidies and “passes.”
GSEE is calling for:
- Regulation of monopolistic market structures and cartels.
- Reintroduction of robust labor relations and collective labor law.
- Social housing programs funded by a €1.5 billion reserve from the former Workers’ Housing Organization.
ADEDY Joins Forces for a Unified Protest
The ADEDY public-sector union, originally set to strike on November 13, postponed its action to align with the GSEE. ADEDY has suggested a shared platform and banners at Klafthmonos Square for the strike rally, emphasizing the importance of unity.
ADEDY’s Demands:
- Immediate wage increases.
- Reinstatement of the 13th and 14th salaries.
- Collective labor agreements.
- Abolition of the 2% unemployment tax.
- Tax-free threshold set at €12,000.
- Increased funding for public healthcare and measures for workplace safety.
Public servants also oppose the privatization of public organizations and demand an end to school mergers, smaller class sizes, and the repeal of labor laws (e.g., Law 4808/21).
PNO: Greek Seafarers to Join the Strike
The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO) confirmed its participation, halting all ferry services from 00:01 to 24:00 on November 20. PNO highlights housing challenges, erosion of collective labor rights, and the declining purchasing power of seafarers, many of whom work only 5-6 months annually to support their families.
Additional Demands:
- Enhanced safety standards for maritime transportation.
- Modern legal frameworks for today’s shipping and labor needs.
Transportation Disruptions on November 20
While public transport unions have not yet officially confirmed their participation, disruptions are expected:
- Buses: Likely to operate from 09:00 to 21:00 to facilitate protest attendance.
- Metro: Typically runs for limited hours on strike days.
Protest Details:
- Time: Rally at 1:00 PM.
- Location: Klafthmonos Square, Athens, followed by a march through the city center.
- Additional demonstrations will occur in other cities across Greece.
For the latest updates on transportation and strike participation, stay tuned to local news sources.
