16 Jan 2018 | 05:52 AM UTC
Greece: Anti-austerity protests in Athens and Thessaloniki January 15
Some 20,000 people participate in anti-austerity protests in Athens and Thessaloniki January 15, with no arrests or casualties reported; additional protests expected in the coming days
Event
Large demonstrations erupted in front of the Greek Parliament building in Athens and in Thessaloniki late on Monday, January 15 (local time), in protest of new austerity measures. Roughly 20,000 protesters between both cities participated in the demonstrations on Monday. Protesters reportedly threw stones and petrol bombs at police who had formed a cordon outside the Parliament building in Athens; police forces responded by launching tear gas and using stun grenades to disperse the protesters. No arrests or casualties were immediately reported. Additional anti-austerity protests, heightened security measures, and associated transportation disruptions are expected in Greece in the coming days.
Context
These latest protests came as Greek parliamentarians approved new austerity measures on January 15, including provisions hindering the ability of unions to call for strikes, expediting the property foreclosure process, and cutting government-provided family benefits, among other measures. The approved reforms are part of a government plan to ensure receipt of additional bailout funds from international lenders and favorable loan repayment terms from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other eurozone countries.
A public transit strike also affected Athens on January 15, as public transportation workers for the capital's metro, tram, bus, and urban rail (ISAP) services stopped work for 24 hours. Greek air traffic controllers held a three-hour strike on January 15, as well, resulting in the rescheduling and cancelation of dozens of flights. In addition, teachers in state-run schools and doctors in public hospitals participated similar strike actions in Athens on January 15, leading to class and medical service disruptions.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas of Greece are advised to monitor developments to the situation, confirm travel reservations, and avoid all protests as a precaution against potential violence. Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
