Greek Strike Paralyzes Nation Amid Wage Disputes

Greece was largely paralyzed by a 24-hour general strike on November 20, 2024, as public and private sector workers protested against the high cost of living and insufficient wage increases. The strike, organized by Greek labor unions, affected services nationwide, including public transport, schools, hospitals, and media outlets. Approximately 15,000 people marched in Athens, with additional protests in Thessaloniki, demanding action against inflation and unaffordable housing. Despite Greece's economic recovery since the financial crisis, unions argue that government policies under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis have not adequately addressed wage disparities and rising living costs. Mitsotakis has pledged to increase the minimum wage to €950 by 2027, but unions maintain that this is insufficient given current economic conditions. The strike highlighted the growing discontent with the government's handling of economic issues, despite previous wage hikes.