Thousands of public and private-sector workers across Greece staged a 24-hour strike demanding better wages and working conditions. The action, organized by the country’s largest unions, included protests in Athens and other cities, drawing an estimated 12,000 participants.
Union leaders and politicians voiced strong criticism of the government’s economic policies. Dimitris Koutsoubas of the Greek Communist Party called for increased spending on wages and public services, while PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis blamed the ruling New Democracy party for soaring living costs.
European Trade Union Federation head Esther Lynch expressed solidarity with the strikers, urging policymakers to address economic inequality and ensure workers receive fair compensation for their contributions.
Strikers demanded a minimum wage of 950 euros, a 20% pay raise for civil servants, and stable work contracts with adequate rights. Public hospital staff, educators, judicial employees, and workers from various sectors participated in the nationwide protests.
Despite economic recovery from years of crisis, inflation and rising housing costs continue to erode incomes, leaving many struggling. The strike underscored the growing frustration among Greece’s workforce over persistent economic hardships.