On April 11th, unionized employees from both the public and private sectors of the Italian General Workers’ Confederation (CGIL) will go on a nationwide strike. They are demanding higher wages and protesting against public health and tax reforms. The strike is expected to cause disruptions in transportation, government operations, healthcare, and education. Violent protests are likely to be met with force by police.
On April 6 at 3:00 PM, pro-Palestinian activists have planned a march along University Avenue in Toronto, Canada. Protesters are calling for an end to the Israel/Hamas conflict. The march will likely pass peacefully but an increase in police presence is expected.
From April 9-13, the San Carlos de Bariloche Airport in Argentina will close for runway and taxiway maintenance. Repairs are being done to comply with landing safety regulations. More than 160 flights are expected to be disrupted due to this maintenance.
On April 9 in Greece, unionized air traffic control (ATC) personnel will strike nationwide. The strike is set from 8 AM to 12 PM. Workers are denouncing the death of an ATC worker while on duty. This work stoppage is expected to disrupt all air travel across the country.
At roughly 8:00 AM, April 3, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake occurred near Hualien City, Taiwan, with multiple aftershocks and tsunami warnings which have since been cancelled. 9 deaths and 934 injuries have been reported, although these should be expected to rise. Additionally, at least 150 are trapped, but alive, inside buildings. This is Taiwan’s strongest earthquake event in 25 years.
On March 29 at 6:30 PM, activists will gather at Place Jean Ferrat in Paris, France to demand the release of Georges Abdallah. Activists are expected to protest peacefully but expect a heightened police presence in the area surrounding the protest.
On March 24, the French government raised the country’s terror alert warning to its highest level after the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the Russian concert hall attack in a Moscow suburb on March 22. France was already increasing security measures in preparation to host the Paris Olympics and Paralympics this year, which are expected to draw millions of visitors to the country during July and August.
On March 25, unionized taxi-drivers will be striking from 8am until 10pm throughout Italy. COBAS union workers are demanding flexible working shifts and denouncing the government’s plan to increase the number of operator licenses issued. Protests are likely to accompany the strike.
Beginning March 22, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be increasing security in preparation for the Christian Holy Week, lasting from March 24 to March 31. The PNP will deploy extra personnel to airports, seaports, and places of worship.
On March 22, unionized railway controllers and conductors will be striking from 3:00 am until 12:00 pm in Victoria, Australia. Workers associated with the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) are advocating for higher wages, increased job security, and better work-life balance.