Athens, December 15, 2025 – Greece is preparing for widespread disruptions on Tuesday, December 16, as public sector workers initiate a 24-hour nationwide strike. The strike, called by the Civil Servants’ Confederation (ADEDY), is a dual protest against the government’s proposed 2026 state budget and an act of solidarity with the country’s ongoing farmers’ mobilizations.
ADEDY Denounces 2026 State Budget as ‘War and Exploitation’
ADEDY has strongly criticized the upcoming state budget, labeling it one of “war and exploitation.” The confederation argues that the budget prioritizes military spending at the expense of workers’ essential needs. This action directly supports farmers who have been escalating their protests, establishing roadblocks, disrupting port operations, and closing border crossings. Their grievances stem from delayed European Union subsidies, a situation exacerbated by a corruption scandal affecting these payments.
Municipal Workers Lead the Charge in Athens
The Panhellenic Federation of Local Government Employees (POE-OTA) has confirmed its full participation in the strike. The federation has urged all municipal staff to join a significant rally scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at Syntagma Square in Athens. POE-OTA’s demands are comprehensive, including calls for fair salary increases, large-scale permanent hirings within the public sector, adequate funding for municipal services, and the preservation of existing public services. Additionally, they seek the repeal of restrictive provisions, the conversion of temporary workers’ contracts into permanent ones, and measures to alleviate the impact of inflation on their members.
Teachers Opt Out, Transport Impact Uncertain
While municipal workers are actively participating, reports indicate that teachers’ federations have chosen not to join the strike. This decision suggests that the primary impact of the strike will be felt within municipal and other public service sectors. The participation of public transport workers remains uncertain, with official announcements regarding their involvement expected shortly. Separately, Athens bus workers have announced their own planned stoppage for Wednesday, December 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., which will further affect urban transport.
Farmers Intensify Blockades Nationwide
Concurrently with the public sector strike, farmers across Greece are intensifying their protest actions. Blockades are being established on major highways, at key ports including Volos and Thessaloniki, and at various border crossings. The farmers’ core demands revolve around the immediate payment of overdue subsidies and compensation for agricultural losses they have incurred. Public sentiment largely favors the farmers, with high levels of sympathy reported. However, the government has appealed for restraint, urging protestors to avoid excessive disruptions, particularly as the holiday season approaches. Rallies are anticipated in major cities as investigations into the delays in subsidy payments continue.
Source: https://greekcitytimes.com/2025/12/15/greece-braces-for-public-sector-strike-amid-solidarity-with-farmers-protests/
