Major Nationwide RMT Strike in the United Kingdom

On December 20, 2022, the Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers’ Union (RMT) initiated one of the largest UK railway strikes of the decade. The industrial action involved tens of thousands of workers across Network Rail and multiple passenger operators, effectively halting most long-distance and commuter services. The strike occurred during a period of heightened inflation and disputes over job security, automation proposals, and working-condition reforms. It marked one of several coordinated nationwide actions during the winter of 2022–2023, which collectively represented the most significant British rail labor unrest since the 1980s. The December 20 strike was especially impactful due to its proximity to the Christmas travel season, affecting millions of passengers. It forced operators to run skeleton timetables and highlighted long-standing tensions between unions, rail operators, and government officials regarding the future of Britain’s rail system. The event remains a key chapter in modern UK labor history.