Greek island unions announce strikes over austerity and healthcare shortages

Labor unions in the Greek islands of Lefkada and Kefalonia have announced industrial actions to protest economic policies and the deterioration of public services.

In Lefkada, the Local Government Employees Union has scheduled a work stoppage and protest at the Prefecture building for Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The union is protesting against government austerity, wage stagnation, and the prioritization of military spending over public services such as health and education. They specifically criticized the lack of permanent status for contract workers and the reduction of worker purchasing power.

In Kefalonia, the General Hospital Employees Union has called for a protest and a work stoppage on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, coinciding with a nationwide strike by the Federation of Hospital Doctors of Greece. The union warned of a collapse in public healthcare, citing severe staffing shortages. According to their report, 71.4% of recently announced physician positions remained unfilled, including roles for pathologists and anesthesiologists. Additionally, the nursing staff is projected to decrease by 21 members between 2025 and late 2026.