Temporary employees at Nag Hammadi sought permanent contracts and minimum wage as security forces ended the protest in Qena
Egyptalum, Egypt’s largest aluminum producer, dismissed more than 500 temporary workers at its Nag Hammadi complex after security forces broke up a sit-in and strike in Qena governorate, workers said. More than 2,000 temporary employees had launched an open-ended strike on Saturday seeking direct hiring by Egyptalum instead of labor supply firms and application of the national minimum wage. Strikers reported current monthly pay between 2,500 and 3,000 Egyptian pounds, or roughly $50–$60.
In Europe, Dutch unions FNV, CNV, and VCP are preparing nationwide strike actions after a brief meeting with the cabinet over plans to raise the AOW retirement age and reduce unemployment and disability benefits. In the United States, school bus drivers for Durham School Services in Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna Borough remain on strike, and Twin Rivers Unified teachers in California plan a March 5 walkout over pay, healthcare, and class sizes unless a deal is reached. In Mexico, the National Union of Cultural Workers (SINAC) has occupied the Culture Secretariat headquarters, saying staff have been paid below the minimum wage and seeking a 13% raise. Across these disputes, wages and social protections are central points of contention.
Concurrent actions across heavy industry, transport, education, and culture highlight sustained pressure on wage floors and benefits that can affect essential services and output.