While the G20 tried to put the world economy back on track, the fallout from the recession brought much of Greece to a standstill. Public and private-sector unions called their members out on strike, to protest at job cuts and falling living standards. Banks, schools, hospitals, government ministries and many businesses were hit as workers downed tools and walked out.

No buses meant the morning rush was reduced to a crawl; a total shutdown on the Athens metro simply added to the problems. More than 200 domestic and international flights were cancelled, while Greece’s vital ferries remained tied up in port. The EU has told Athens to tackle its burgeoning national debt, but government spending plans have merely fuelled public anger and prompted the strikes.More about: Greece

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