Story perspectives

Portugal's First General Strike Since 2013 Disrupts Holiday Travel

12/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses (CGTP) and União Geral de Trabalhadores (UGT) organize a general strike on December 11, the first since 2013, protesting labor reforms.
Major public transport, including trains and flights, will face cancellations.
TAP Air Portugal plans to operate only a third of services, while Iberia and Air Europa cancel flights.
The strike coincides with the holiday season, risking tourism and prompting refunds or rebooking.

History

Historical Context

Portugal's labor history includes significant strikes, notably the 2013 general strike against austerity measures, which saw a 30% reduction in public transport services. This event reflects ongoing tensions between labor unions, such as CGTP and UGT, and government policies. The upcoming strike on December 11, 2023, echoes these past struggles, potentially disrupting transport during the holiday season and impacting tourism.

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Story summary

Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses (CGTP) and União Geral de Trabalhadores (UGT) organize a general strike on December 11, the first since 2013, protesting labor reforms.
Major public transport, including trains and flights, will face cancellations.
TAP Air Portugal plans to operate only a third of services, while Iberia and Air Europa cancel flights.
The strike coincides with the holiday season, risking tourism and prompting refunds or rebooking.

1 / 2