13 Hrs Workload: Protests Erupt On Roads

The workload management is a global problem these days. Thousands of people in Greece joined a massive protest against the government’s new labor law reforms, which they say threaten workers’ rights.

The demonstrations were part of a 24-hour nationwide strike that brought daily life to a standstill. Public transport was hit the hardest, with trains, taxis, and ferries not operating. Buses, metro, and trams in Athens ran only for limited hours, leaving commuters stranded. Services in hospitals, schools, courts, and municipalities were also disrupted.

The strike was organized by both public and private sector unions. They demanded the withdrawal of the new measures, which include longer working shifts of up to 13 hours, an increase to 150 overtime hours per year, and a cap of 48 working hours per week including overtime.

Unions argue that these changes will push workers into exhausting schedules, reduce work-life balance, and pave the way for exploitation. Instead, they are calling for stronger labor protections, restoration of collective bargaining, and a reduction to a 37.5-hour workweek.

Many protesters also raised international issues, chanting slogans of solidarity with Palestine. The strike, which saw thousands of people marching in Athens and other cities, is one of the largest in recent years. It highlights rising anger in Greece over economic pressures, living costs, and government policies seen as favoring employers over workers.