ISTANBUL

Portugal is witnessing its first general strike in 12 years on Thursday, as trade unions mobilize workers and bring key public services, including education, health care, and transport, to a standstill.

The strike initiated by CGTP and UGT unions aims to halt the labor reform package proposed by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro's government, Portuguese daily Publico reported.

Hospitals, schools, factories, water and sanitation services, as well as agriculture and fish markets, have been shut down across the country from north to south.

Portuguese Railways runs minimal services, while the Lisbon Metro closed all stations on Thursday due to the strike.

Speaking to reporters, the secretary-general of the CGTP called on workers to join the general strike, with a view to improving their living conditions as well as giving a signal of rejection to the labor package, according to broadcaster RTP.

In the meantime, the general secretary of the UGT said that participation in the general strike could exceed 80% and stressed that a second general strike is not ruled out if negotiations fail, according to Radio Renascenca.

The government's draft labor reform drew criticism as it reportedly makes layoffs easier, weakens collective bargaining, and increases job insecurity.