Beginning 10 December, all cross-border rail services between Italy and Switzerland will be suspended indefinitely due to train personnel lacking the capacity to carry out COVID-19 safety checks ordered by the Italian government. The suspension will affect dozens of routes including long-distance trains between Milan, Italy, and Frankfurt, Germany.
As of 7 December, Fraser Island continues to be affected by bushfires. Fires began impacting Australia as of November, leading the country to issue complete fire bans across multiple states, and evacuation orders in some areas. Authorities expect conditions to deteriorate through rising temperatures, lightning strikes, and increased winds.
On December 9 at 21:00 local time, nationwide strikes are to begin on behalf of the energy sector. Employees under Electricite de France (EDF) plan to hold a 24-hour strike to protest a planned restructuring of EDF, claiming the new project would lead to dismantling and privatization of EDF therefore affecting employment.
Since December 1, when negotiations between farmers and authorities fell apart, protests across the country are taking place. The protests, causing large disruptions, are led by farmers demanding abolition of agricultural bills passed in September allegedly hurting labor protections. Authorities have previously dispersed demonstrations with force, resulting in clashes.
The German government has extended its national lockdown until 20 December. Indoor dining, entertainment facilities, gyms, etc will remain closed, takeaway dining is still permitted. Furthermore, the gathering limit has been reduced from 10 to 5. Face masks are mandatory at all times in public, and some nonessential businesses may reopen.
On 1 December, a strike organized by the FGTB labor union has been scheduled in urban centers, and on 10 December, the union has called for a peaceful demonstration. Details on time and location for both events have not yet been released. The group is denouncing a court sentence against several workers who caused a road blockade in 2015 during a similar strike, where a man died due to lack of medical attention.
Employees at London Heathrow Airport have announced their intentions to strike in response to layoffs and reduced pay. On 1 and 14 December, workers will stage a 24-hour strike, and on 17-18 December, they will strike for 48 hours. Travelers visiting London on these dates should expect possible disruptions and reconfirm flights.
As of 29 November, the Rural Fire Service issued a watch and act notice due to a bushfire burning out of control in Northmead due to a heatwave. The fire threatened homes near Moxham Park, and one property has been damaged. Firefighters are working to bring the fire under control. Transportation disruptions should be expected. Additional fires are expected as temperatures in Australia rise.
Government opposition organizers scheduled a protest for 27 November beginning at 16:00 local time. The location remains unknown at this time. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Chan-o-cha. Expect a large crowd and a heightened security presence. Localized and traffic disruptions are likely. It is likely this protest will turn violent, as similar protests have in the past week.
On 28 November, a Yellow Vest protest march is to be staged at Republic Square at 14:00 local time. Protesters are then expected to march to Pere Lachaise Cemetery. A large turnout is expected, which may cause travel disruptions and road blockades. Clashes between the police and protesters are likely.