Labor Disputes Heighten as Aviation Strikes Loom in Sweden
Aviation sector strikes loom as Transport Workers' Union demands improve working conditions.
Key Points
- • Negotiations between Transport and Swedish Aviation stalled, with a strike possible by May 26.
- • Dockworkers threaten strikes over collective agreements, with action potentially starting May 21.
- • New unemployment insurance rules could negatively impact families with children starting October 1, 2023.
- • Construction sector reaches a new agreement with wage increases and vacation days.
Negotiations between the Transport Workers' Union and the Swedish Aviation industry have reportedly reached a critical impasse, prompting warnings of potential strikes pending the outcome of discussions by May 26. The union's president, Tommy Wreeth, expressed frustration over the deteriorating working conditions for cabin crew, stating, "Now the line has been crossed, and our members say stop, that’s enough. Working conditions and hours for cabin crew must be improved."
In addition to the aviation sector, the Dockworkers' Union is also preparing for possible strike actions related to collective agreement disputes with Swedish Ports. They have indicated that if an agreement is not reached by May 21, a strike could be on the horizon, emphasizing their demands for limitations on the use of staffing agencies and enhanced negotiation rights.
Furthermore, the Transport Workers' Union plans to initiate a blockade against new hiring in the same timeframe, potentially affecting labor dynamics at various ports. Strikes in these sectors could commence as early as May 30 if negotiations do not yield satisfactory results.
On a broader scale, the introduction of new unemployment insurance regulations is set for October 1, 2023, which will modify eligibility criteria, potentially disadvantaging families with children by removing additional benefit days. Simon Vinge, chief economist at Akademikerförbundet SSR, cautioned that this change could exacerbate child poverty as expenses for families rise without the safety net of extended unemployment benefits.
In contrast to the turbulent negotiations in aviation and transport, the construction industry recently reached a new agreement that includes a 2.4% wage increase and additional vacation days, signaling a more favorable outcome in that sector. Meanwhile, ongoing negotiations between the Medical Association and municipalities remain unresolved, as they advocate for improved pay and benefits for long-term employees, with mediation efforts likely in the near future.