Athens, November 12 (RHC)-- Unions in Greece have launched a 24-hour general strike against fresh austerity measures imposed by the government. The leading Greek General Confederation of Greece (GSEE) union said on Thursday that the strike was in protest against tax hikes and an upcoming pension overhaul.

"We are fighting against government measures that perpetuate medieval labor relations ... we react to any austerity measure that downgrades our lives," the union said in a statement.

The strike has already led to the cancellation of dozens of domestic flights, and a shutdown of public services. Ship and train transport has also been affected.

Hospital workers, except emergency staff, and journalists are taking part in the industrial action. Reports say museums and archaeological sites are also closed. Protesters have also held a mass rally in the capital, Athens.

The strike comes as the representatives of the country's international creditors, namely the European Commission, the European Central Bank (ECB), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), are reviewing reforms regarding Athens' third bailout.