Portugal experienced widespread disruption across transport, aviation, healthcare, education, and other public services on Thursday due to a general strike. The action was initiated by the two primary union federations, CGTP and UGT, in response to proposed labor market reforms. This marks the first time these federations have coordinated such a strike in twelve years.
Context of the Strike
The last joint strike by CGTP and UGT occurred in 2013 during the eurozone debt crisis, when international institutions mandated salary and pension reductions as part of Portugal's bailout conditions. Currently, Portugal's economy has registered recent growth, with Prime Minister LuÃs Montenegro's government advocating for reforms to address labor market "rigidities." The government states these changes aim to enhance company profitability and improve worker salaries.
Proposed Labor Reforms
The government's proposals include over 100 measures, some of which have generated significant controversy. These include:
- Allowing employers to extend temporary contracts for indefinite periods.
- Removing the prohibition against dismissing workers and immediately re-employing them indirectly through outsourcing.
- Eliminating the requirement to reinstate employees who have been unfairly dismissed.
Public and Political Response
The proposed reforms are anticipated to impact individuals in their twenties significantly. Public sentiment regarding these changes is varied. Some individuals, such as an air steward referenced in the article, expressed support for the reforms, viewing them as necessary for national economic development. Conversely, others, including a self-employed photographer, indicated concerns about existing job insecurity and welcomed the unions' unified stance, describing the current period as critical for Portugal.