Greek unions face new curbs on organisation and industrial action

The Greek government is considering new legislation which will hit unions’ ability to organise and make it more difficult for them to take industrial action. Under pressure from the International Monetary Fund and the European institutions providing financial support, the Greek government is reported to be planning changes in four crucial areas.

First, there will be a reduction in time off for union activities in the civil service, with the government arguing that these rights have been abused in the past.

Secondly, rules on industrial action will be tightened. In future, strikes will only be legal if they are supported by a majority of union members who have been called on to take action, and unions must give longer notice of their intentions. Thirdly, employers will regain the right to lock out workers in industrial disputes; something which they lost in 1982.

Finally, the government plans to review the funding of trade unions which, in Greece, involves significant financial support through the state, containing a system of compulsory contributions which are part of the social security system.

The government has said that it will consult with the GSEE union confederation on its plans. But if they go ahead, they could have a major impact.