US Government Shutdown Leaves Overseas Base Workers Unpaid for Weeks

The record-long US government shutdown is creating severe financial hardship for local workers at American military bases in Europe. Thousands of employees in countries like Italy and Portugal have gone without pay for weeks. These civilian workers perform essential jobs supporting US military operations abroad.

According to the Associated Press, the payment disruption stems from the political impasse in Washington. The situation is causing distress among workers struggling to meet basic living costs.

Host Nations React Differently to Payment Crisis

Some host nations have stepped in to cover the salaries. Germany has paid nearly 11,000 civilian employees working on US bases. A German finance ministry spokesperson expressed confidence the US would eventually reimburse the funds.

Other countries have not provided this safety net. In Italy, over 900 workers at bases in Aviano and Vicenza remain unpaid. Union leaders describe the effects as dramatic. Workers are reportedly struggling to pay mortgages and even fuel costs to commute.

Wide-Ranging Impact on Local Communities

The local employees hold a variety of crucial roles. Their jobs include construction, maintenance, logistics, and food service. These positions are vital for the day-to-day functioning of the installations.

A Pentagon spokesperson acknowledged the value of these employees but did not provide a payment solution. The prolonged uncertainty places immense strain on the local families and economies that depend on these bases for employment.

The ongoing US government shutdown has created an international payroll crisis, leaving dedicated local employees in financial limbo and testing the resilience of key overseas alliances.

Thought you’d like to know-

Which US bases in Europe are affected by unpaid wages?

Workers at US bases in Italy, including Aviano and Vicenza, and in Portugal have reported unpaid wages. Bases in Germany have been largely unaffected because the German government advanced the salaries.

What kinds of jobs do these local workers perform?

They work in diverse roles essential to base operations. These jobs include construction, facility maintenance, food service, and specialized logistics support.

How many workers have not been paid due to the shutdown?

In Italy alone, over 900 workers at bases in Aviano and Vicenza are unpaid. An additional 400 in Livorno are also affected, according to reports from the Associated Press.

Has the US government commented on the situation?

The Pentagon released a brief statement valuing the workers’ contributions. It has not, however, announced a concrete plan to resolve the unpaid wages during the shutdown.

Why did Germany pay its workers but not Italy?

Germany chose to advance the salaries with the expectation of US reimbursement. Italy and Portugal have so far not taken this step, leaving their citizens without income.