Taxi Drivers Launch Nationwide Strike Over New Bill

Taxi drivers across Greece have launched a nationwide strike starting Tuesday, March 17, in protest of a new government bill affecting the sector.

The mobilization was announced by the Panhellenic Federation of Taxi Drivers (POEIAΤΑ), which said the strike will continue for as long as the proposed legislation is being debated in parliamentary committees.

According to the federation, the protest aims to challenge several provisions in the bill introduced by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

Taxi unions say they strongly disagree with a number of measures included in the proposed legislation.

Among the main points of contention is the mandatory transition to electric vehicles without an extension of the implementation timeline. Drivers argue that the change would impose significant financial pressure on professionals in the sector.

The federation also objects to provisions that it says favor private hire vehicles with drivers, as well as new violations and penalties linked to special operating licenses for taxi drivers.

Union representatives said taxi drivers plan to maintain pressure while the bill is discussed in parliament.

The federation called on local taxi associations across the country to participate in the strike and support the industry’s demands.

Drivers are also expected to gather outside parliament when union representatives present their objections during committee discussions and again when the bill is brought to a vote.

Further action possible

The federation said it will assess developments after the first parliamentary session and announce the next steps for the strike and other potential actions.

Taxi services across Greece may be significantly disrupted during the protest period.