A month-long series of labor strikes has created havoc in Athens. The city center was paralyzed Oct. 9 during mass demonstrations that followed violent clashes the night before between riot police and protesting police officers. The Acropolis and other tourist sites were closed Oct. 13. Protesters have ranged from taxi drivers to coast guard officers, firefighters, doctors and nurses, all protesting low wages. Strikes are common in Greece and likely to continue, especially because the governmentÂ’s position is that there is no money available to increase wages or benefits; all discretionary funding has been directed to preparations for next yearÂ’s Olympics. A nationwide strike has been called for Nov. 4.
