The Union of Journalists has called a general strike for March 14

The Union of Journalists (SJ) has planned a general strike for March 14 against low wages, instability and deteriorating working conditions in the sector.

“On March 14, we will stop demanding stable labor contracts. We will stop demanding a general increase in salaries, it is unacceptable for a profession of such urgency to demand that we be paid a salary that is barely enough to survive,” said SJ President Luis Simões at a press conference in Lisbon.

In January, journalists unanimously approved a general strike against low wages and deteriorating working conditions.

The vote took place at the V Congress of Journalists in Lisbon, which instructed the SJ to determine the date of the strike.

For the first time in more than 40 years, a general strike of journalists is planned.

“The time has come to move from words to action. The diagnosis was made long ago: the practice of journalism has deteriorated. It’s time to demand respect. Journalists’ passion for their profession cannot serve as a pretext for exploitation of labor,” said President SJ.

The trade unionist believed it was unacceptable to “kick out” those who had worked as editors for decades for above-average earnings, condemn image reporters to “an eternity of fake green slips”, force interns to earn €150 a month or have “freelancers” receive €20 apiece.

However, he acknowledged “how difficult it is to strike when you are vulnerable,” but stressed that “only together” can journalists demand decent conditions.

“Newsrooms have been reduced to a minimum. It’s only a miracle that it’s possible to create quality journalism when conditions in newsrooms have deteriorated so much,” he emphasized.

On the other hand, Luis Simões recalled that the “constant flow of news” is supported by labor practices that “trample rights”, while among journalists there are high levels of anxiety and “burnout” (fatigue).

Therefore, journalists will stop demanding stable contracts, general salary increases, overtime pay, compensation for night and weekend work, and exemption from working hours.

SJ has already guaranteed that the strike will not take place during the election campaign.

The 14th was chosen because “a new government is likely to be discussed” and “it is important that political forces realize that it is no longer possible not to support journalism, otherwise disinformation will win.”

Responding to reporters, Luis Simões said he expected a “big response” to the strike.

“I believe that participation in the strike will be significant. I have no serious doubts about it,” he repeated.