Despite the headlines, there is no epidemic of strikes—but worse unrest may be looming in bloated public sectors once spending cuts begin

IS THE world returning to an age of class war and industrial strife, as victims of the recession join forces against heartless bosses? In many countries, both rich and poor, it has started to feel that way.

Well before a volcano wreaked havoc with Europe’s air transport, travellers across the continent were coping with the effects of labour disputes that had an old-fashioned tinge. Strikes by flight attendants afflicted British Airways for seven days last month. In February a stoppage at Germany’s national carrier, Lufthansa, was declared illegal after the first day—but still caused disruption. …