'Government hits vulnerable groups': Feminist organisations back general strike

'Government hits vulnerable groups': Feminist organisations back general strike
The National Feminist Manifestation on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Credit: Belga/ Nicolas Maeterlinck

EFFE, a coalition of feminist organisations, has expressed its support for the 31 March strike.

The organisation has urged those who cannot participate in the traditional strike to find alternative ways to support the day of action.

EFFE argues that the Federal Government’s policies disproportionately affect women and other vulnerable groups.

The coalition criticises the labour market’s increased flexibility, the reduced social protection due to stricter unemployment benefit conditions, and the tightening of pension rules.

As a result, EFFE says the "right to a stable, fair, and viable job" is under threat, endangering women’s financial independence. Women in the country are more likely to have part-time jobs or interrupted careers.

Therefore, EFFE calls on everyone to support the national strike on 31 March. "For many, striking is not an option. Women are overrepresented in essential sectors like healthcare, education, cleaning, and food provision. Their sense of responsibility and the need for minimum service make it impossible to participate in the strike."

The organisation also points out that only those with paid jobs can strike. However, policies affect pensioners, long-term sick individuals, caregivers, people on parental leave, the temporarily unemployed, and those receiving subsistence benefits.

EFFE encourages alternative support for the strike, such as avoiding shopping, organising symbolic actions, or spreading messages on social media.

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