Strikes in Europe

• Violent street protests and widespread work strikes continue in Greece in opposition to the “Austerity Measures” passed by the legislature in June to prevent national bankruptcy. Public and private sector workers all have been striking for days at a time in Athens and other cities. Travelers should plan for transport delays and shutdowns and business closures.

• Pension reforms and wage freezes have led to protests and strikes by civil servants and teachers in the United Kingdom. Unions have vowed to stage coordinated national actions in what could lead to the worst strikes in decades. If immigration officials and other transportation employees participate in the strikes, travelers will face delays at airports and ports.

• In Madrid, Spain, since austerity measures were passed in mid May, thousands of protesters have been demonstrating outside of parliament and in the plazas. Crowds of up to 30,000 people have filled the square Puerta del Sol for evening protests, with some camping there.