General Strike Called for Wednesday, November 20th by GSEE and ADEDY
In a joint announcement, the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) and the Public Sector Workers’ Confederation (ADEDY) have called for a general strike on Wednesday, November 20th. The unions demand that the government take “substantial measures” to address a range of issues affecting workers, such as rising living costs, high rents, and the housing market. They are also advocating for wage increases, collective labor agreements, and the restoration of the 13th and 14th salaries.
Initially, ADEDY had announced a strike for November 13th, but after GSEE set the date for November 20th, ADEDY moved its strike to the same day to allow both public and private sector workers to participate in the strike together.
Strike on November 20th: How Will Public Transport Operate?
At present, it is not clear how public transport will operate on the strike day. Generally, buses operate from 09:00 to 21:00 during such strikes, participating with work stoppages, while the metro runs for limited hours to accommodate citizens wishing to attend the strike rally. Further details on the operation of public transport are expected to be announced soon.
Ship Strikes: Ferries Will Be Docked
The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO) has announced its participation in the 24-hour strike on November 20th. The strike will begin at 00:01 and end at 24:00 on the same day. The main demands are addressing the housing crisis, restoring collective labor rights, and combating the decline in workers’ purchasing power.
Private Sector Teachers to Strike
Private school teachers, through the Federation of Private School Teachers of Greece (OIETE), have also announced their participation in the general strike on November 20th. Their demands include the restoration of collective bargaining in private tutoring centers and language schools, salary increases, and the return of the 13th and 14th salaries.
Construction Workers Join the Strike
The Federation of Builders and Related Professions of Greece has announced a two-pronged strike action—one for November 6th and the other for the general strike on November 20th. They are demanding a collective labor agreement for all builders, wage increases, a 7-hour workday with a 5-day week, and better health and safety measures in the workplace.
Bank Workers to Participate in the Strike
The Federation of Bank Employee Unions of Greece (OTOE), a member of GSEE, has also announced participation in the November 20th strike. Their key demands include addressing inflation, wage increases, collective bargaining agreements, and the fulfillment of their demands by the government and employers.
The OTOE has called for a demonstration in Athens at 11:00 AM in Klafthmonos Square.