Portugal prepares for nationwide general strike on June 3 over labor reform

The Portuguese General Confederation of Labour (CGTP‑IN) has called a general strike for 3 June, urging workers from across the country to protest the government's proposed labour reform package. The strike is expected to draw strong participation from the public sector, health, education, transport and private services, with unions reporting that the package would increase precarious contracts, revive individual bank‑hours, weaken collective bargaining and make dismissals easier.

Regional unions in the Algarve, the Azores and other districts have announced rallies and warned of disruptions to transport, schools, health facilities and other public services. The CGTP‑IN and its affiliates describe the reforms as the “worst attack on workers” and accuse the minority government of pursuing policies that erode salaries, housing, health and education.

If the strike proceeds as anticipated, it could halt public transport, affect hospital and university operations, and curb commercial activities nationwide, marking one of the most extensive labour actions in Portugal this year.