Portugal's Big Walkout: Workers vs. Government

Portugal saw a massive strike recently. It was the biggest in over a decade. Almost a million workers joined in. They were unhappy with the government's new work rules. The government wants to change the rules. They say it will help the economy grow. But workers think it takes away their rights. The changes make it easier for companies to fire people. They also limit the right to strike. And they cut breastfeeding breaks for moms. The strike hit hard. Travel was a mess. Many flights were canceled. Trains and buses ran with few services. Even schools and hospitals felt the impact. Some stores closed. Trash wasn't collected. The streets of Lisbon were quiet. Few people were out. The government said the strike didn't affect much. But the unions said it was a big success. They want the government to drop the new rules. Workers are feeling the pinch. Portugal has low wages. The cost of living is high. Many people struggle to make ends meet. The prime minister called the strike "senseless. " He said the country is doing well. But workers don't see it that way. They want better pay and more rights. The strike shows their frustration. Portugal's economy is small. Wages are low. But the government expects growth this year. Unemployment is low too. Yet, many people still struggle. The strike highlights the tension between workers and the government.