Athens: Greece faced major disruptions today as workers across the country staged a nationwide strike to protest proposed labor reforms. Organized by the leading unions ADEDY and GSEE, the walkout coincided with parliamentary discussions on the government's new labor bill.

The proposed legislation seeks to extend working hours, allow greater flexibility for short-term hires, and modify rules around annual leave in the private sector. While the government insists these changes will modernize the labor market and safeguard workers from forced overtime, unions argue that the reforms threaten fundamental labor rights, weaken bargaining power, and undermine the eight-hour workday.

The strike drew widespread participation, including hospital doctors, public broadcast journalists, and other key workers. Transport services were heavily affected, with ferries and trains remaining docked and taxis off the roads. Protesters also marched to parliament to voice their opposition to the reforms.

This demonstration is the second significant strike in Greece this month, highlighting growing tensions between the government and labor unions over workers’ rights and employment conditions. The standoff comes amid ongoing concerns about low wages and purchasing power, issues that persist despite Greece’s gradual recovery from its past economic crises.