FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – A nationwide 24-hour strike brought Greece to a standstill on Wednesday as trade unions protested against inadequate salary increases amid soaring living costs.
Thousands of demonstrators marched through central Athens, paralyzing public services, including transport, hospitals, and schools.
Protesters carried banners reading, “We want decent wages, not breadcrumbs,” as they rallied outside the Greek Parliament.
Despite the country’s economic recovery following a decade-long debt crisis (2009-2018), unions argue that households and small businesses continue to struggle with inflation and rising housing costs.
Dimitris Koutsoumbas, general secretary of the Greek Communist Party (KKE), criticized the economic policies, stating, “No sacrifices for the elite’s wealth, no sacrifices for the war economy and tariffs.” The protest concluded peacefully, with only minor scuffles reported.
Union leaders are demanding more substantial wage increases and measures to alleviate inflationary pressures, emphasizing the need for dignity and financial security for workers in both public and private sectors.
The strike underscores growing frustration over economic inequality and the challenges faced by ordinary citizens.