Greek workers take action over government’s proposed reforms


The two main Greek union confederations, GSEE and ADEDY, called two national strikes on 24 September and 2 October to protest against government plans to make changes to the laws covering unions, strike action and collective bargaining. 


The centre-right New Democracy government is introducing legislation to compel unions to create an electronic database of their members and to use this for union voting — both in their internal elections and in strike ballots. Unilateral access to arbitration during a dispute will also be limited under the plans. 


The proposed legislation also contains a measure which will limit the effectiveness of collective agreements, as companies facing financial difficulties will be allowed to opt out of the terms of industry-level or national settlements. 


The strikes had a major impact on the transport network and further protests are planned. 


In a statement calling for action on 2 October, the GSEE called for the proposed legislation to be withdrawn. The union said it “restricts free trade unionism and legitimises state and employer intervention in the exercise of workers’ collective rights”.