The two main unions (ADEDY and GSEE) will stage a 24-hour general strike against the government on Tuesday, February 7th. Public transport services across the country, especially in the main cities, are likely to be disrupted; however, flights should operate as scheduled. Two mass demonstrations are planned on the Athens’ Syntagma Square. The first will take place today, February 6th at 06:00 pm (local time) and the second one will be organised tomorrow morning. Authorities are likely to deploy extra security forces in order to avoid violence. However, clashes between police and protesters are likely to erupt and sporadic acts of vandalism cannot be ruled-out.
Unions are protesting against the austerity measures required by the European Union and the IMF to allow Greece to access to an international financial aid. Over the past years, the country has been forced to adopt several austerity measures to avoid the default and to get the financial support from the international organisations. Greece’s economic situation has created a great social unrest. Demonstrations and strikes, denouncing the poor living conditions and the degradation of the standard of living, are common since 2010.
Travellers are advised to avoid all public gatherings and demonstrations as they might turn violent at short notice. Listen to local and international media in order to get updated information. Stay away from governmental buildings during the strike. Confirm all your travel arrangements.
