LABOR unions in Finland last week announced they would shut down commercial air traffic for the first two days of February.
The strike is not about a dispute with employers but rather a form of protest against the government’s proposed labor market reform.
The political strike will shut down Finland’s commercial air traffic on February 1 and 2, as confirmed by the Trade Union for the Public and Welfare Sectors.
The union alone boasts of approximately 165,000 members.
An estimated 60,000 travelers will be affected by the planned two-day strike, with massive flight cancellations expected ahead of the job boycott.
Taking inspiration from Sweden, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, who came to power in June 2023, wants major changes to the country’s labor market, which include cutting unemployment benefits, among other proposals.
Trade unions warned the government’s proposed changes will create long-term damage to Finland’s economy and disrupt the organized labor negotiation system.
Local media reported that more unions have announced to launch industrial action as early as next week, with schools, daycare, and healthcare possibly affected by the strikes.
