Portugal faced widespread disruption on Thursday as a general strike brought public transport, schools, and several public services to a standstill. The strike, led by major labor unions, is a response to government-backed labor reforms that workers say threaten job security, wages, and essential workplace protections.
Transport and Schools Severely Affected
The strike halted or reduced operations across multiple sectors:
- Buses, trains, and metro services reported major delays or complete shutdowns in several cities, including Lisbon and Porto.
- Schools and universities saw high absenteeism, with many teachers and staff participating in the nationwide walkout.
- Hospitals and public offices operated with limited staffing, though emergency services remained functional.
Long queues formed at bus stops and train stations early in the morning, while parents across the country struggled to manage unexpected school closures.
Unions Condemn ‘Harmful’ Labor Reforms
Labor unions argue that the government’s proposed reforms — which include changes to hiring rules, overtime compensation, and temporary contract regulations — will weaken worker protections and widen economic inequality.
Union leaders described the reforms as “a direct attack on workers’ rights,” claiming that they favor employers and undermine decades of progress in Portugal’s labor movement.
“The government cannot expect workers to accept reforms that make jobs more precarious,” one union spokesperson said. “This strike is a message that the workforce will not be ignored.”
Government Defends the Reforms
Despite the backlash, government officials insist that the reforms are necessary to modernize Portugal’s economy, attract foreign investment, and adapt to a changing labor market.
They argue that the new measures will encourage flexibility, improve competitiveness, and reduce bureaucratic barriers that have historically slowed business growth.
Still, the government acknowledged the scale of Thursday’s disruption and urged unions to return to negotiations.
Public Reaction Mixed but Vocal
Public opinion appears divided. Some citizens expressed frustration over transport shutdowns and school closures, while others voiced support for the strike, saying harsh reforms require a strong response.
“We are inconvenienced, yes,” said one commuter in Lisbon, “but workers need to defend their rights. Sometimes disruption is the only way.”
More Protests Likely if Negotiations Fail
Union leaders warned that further strikes and demonstrations are possible if the government does not reconsider key elements of the reform package.
With Portugal facing economic uncertainty and rising living costs, tensions between workers and policymakers are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
As the country grapples with the fallout of the nationwide strike, both sides face mounting pressure to reach a compromise that balances economic reform with workers’ rights.
