Greece will largely come to a standstill next Wednesday (20 November) as a comprehensive strike will stop ferries to the islands, keep schools closed and is likely to severely disrupt public transport. The protest is directed against the rising cost of living, precarious working conditions and inadequate protective measures for employees.
For island residents without an airport connection, the shutdown is equivalent to isolation, as the Panhellenic Seafarers‘ Union (PNO) will completely suspend ferry services. Teachers’ and civil servants’ unions have also joined the strike, meaning that classrooms across the country will remain empty. In addition, public transport is expected to be limited, which is likely to pose significant challenges for commuters and travellers.
About a month ago, ferries in Greece came to a standstill for several days, causing massive disruptions in the country. Tourists and residents of islands without airport connections were particularly hard hit, being cut off from the outside world. Some islands also experienced supply shortages.