Greece: Rallies planned in Macedonia region June 6

Event

Demonstrations are planned in at least 13 cities in Greece’s Macedonia region on Wednesday, June 6. Greeks who oppose a compromise solution to the ongoing naming dispute between Greece and the Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) will gather in the cities of Pella, Kavala, Drama, Serres, Kilkis, Polykastro, Lagadas, Nea Moudania, Edessa, Florina, Kastoria, Ptolemaida, and Katerini. According to media reports, the demonstrations will start at 19:30 (local time). The organizers of the protests claim that 3 million people are expected to participate in the events. Additional demonstrations may be organized in other areas of Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki, and further information will be released on Monday, June 4. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around all demonstrations.

Context

The naming dispute between the two countries has been ongoing for decades. On May 30, Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said that he and Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras had agreed on principles for a compromise deal. According to Greek and Macedonian officials, the new name is expected to contain the word “Macedonia” which will likely be opposed by residents in Greece’s Macedonia region.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public.