Greece is experiencing a 24-hour nationwide strike on Tuesday, October 1, as public and private sector unions protest against labor reforms they argue will extend working hours and weaken workers’ rights. Demonstrations are taking place in Athens, Thessaloniki, Piraeus, and other cities across the country.
Union groups accuse the government of prioritizing business interests at the expense of workers’ health, safety and quality of life. Protest slogans call for shorter working weeks and emphasize that “workers are not machines,” demanding time for family and rest.
Transport heavily disrupted
Transport networks are among the hardest hit. The metro, tram and urban rail are operating only between 9:00 and 17:00. Buses and trolleys will run from 9:00 until 21:00, with the last departures scheduled earlier than usual.
Rail services are completely suspended nationwide, including suburban lines, as the Panhellenic Federation of Railway Workers participates in the strike.
Taxi drivers in Athens are also on strike, while ferries remain docked in ports across the country due to the participation of the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation.
In Thessaloniki, public buses are halted with only limited service provided by essential staff. However, night routes to the airport and services for passengers with disabilities will continue as normal.
Flights unaffected
Flights are operating normally after the Athens court declared illegal the strike announced by the Air Traffic Controllers’ Union.
Schools and public services
Many schools are expected to remain closed depending on the participation of teachers, while public sector services are also impacted by the walkout.
Demonstrations across the country
In Athens, rallies were scheduled in central squares by major trade union federations, while additional gatherings are taking place in Piraeus, Koropi, and cities including Thebes, Chalkida and other parts of Evia. In Thessaloniki, workers and students are gathering outside the city’s labor center before marching through the streets.
