Portugal general strike paralyses transport, schools and flights

On 3 June 2026 a nationwide general strike was called in Portugal, the second in six months, as unions opposed the government's draft labor‑law reform. The plan, backed by the centre‑right coalition and the far‑right Chega party, would amend more than 100 articles of the Labour Code, extending the standard work week, easing dismissals and limiting strike rights.

Union leader Tiago Oliveira of the CGTP warned that the changes would increase precarious contracts for young workers. A 30‑year‑old bank employee, Rogerio Azevedo, said the package was “a serious threat not only to the future of young employees but also to the present”.

The strike shut down the national railway (CP) and Lisbon metro, cancelled hundreds of flights – TAP reduced its schedule to 79 of the usual 300 – and forced schools nationwide to close. Hospitals postponed most elective surgeries and appointments. The government has previously faced a similar strike in December 2025.