Athens taxi drivers have declared a 48-hour strike from 06:00 on Wednesday, May 28, to 06:00 on Friday, May 30, intensifying their standoff with Alternate Minister of Transport Kostas Kyranakis.
According to the Attica Taxi Drivers’ Union (SATA), the strike is in protest against the minister’s “continued refusal” to meet with union leaders, while choosing instead to engage only with POEITA, a federation described by SATA as “mild” in its approach.
The dispute escalated after a series of government decisions, including the cancellation of taxi access to bus lanes and a proposal to introduce the “Swedish model” in urban transport—changes that SATA claims harm the profession. The union also condemned Kyranakis’s suggestion to use taxis for subsidized nightlife transport, accusing him of trying to curry public favor.
SATA has further raised concerns over the presence of Uber at Athens International Airport, suggesting it signals backroom deals that undermine licensed taxi drivers.
Drivers are also demanding reforms, including:
- Action against untaxed and unregulated ride-hailing apps.
- Clear legal separation between taxis and chauffeured rental vehicles.
- Stricter enforcement against illegal transport services.
- Fare increases tied to minimum wage hikes.
- Tax relief and fuel subsidies for professional drivers.
In a statement, SATA said: “We are not giving away transportation work that belongs to the taxi, we are not negotiating our professional status.” The union has also sent a letter to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis requesting an urgent meeting.
SATA warned of further actions and promised additional announcements in the coming days.
