Greece faces widespread strikes over a new labor law, disrupting services and impacting foreign workers, including those from India.
Recent nationwide strikes in Greece have brought the country to a standstill, triggered by widespread opposition to a controversial labor law reform. The new legislation proposes significant changes to labor rights, including working hours and collective bargaining, which unions and workers claim threaten their conditions and protections. Official government sources maintain that the reform aims to modernize the labor market and improve competitiveness. However, major unions and labor organizations have organized protests and work stoppages that have disrupted transport, public services, and various industries across the country.
Foreign workers in Greece, including many from India, are reported to be affected by the strikes. While official embassy communications from India urge nationals to stay informed and exercise caution, some reports highlight concerns raised by workers about temporary difficulties caused by the shutdowns. The Greek Ministry of Labor has called for dialogue to resolve the disputes and ensure the labor market’s stability. Amid the turmoil, the agreement between Greece and India on labor cooperation remains in focus, with both governments expressing commitment to protecting the rights and interests of overseas workers.
This strike action underscores the challenges Greece faces in balancing labor reforms with social acceptance and economic needs, especially impacting migrant workers contributing to the Greek labor market. Monitoring continues on developments related to labor legislation and its effects on employment and bilateral labor agreements.
Sources referenced:
- https://GreekReporter.com/Strike-Gridlock-Greece-Labor-Law
