Greece: Protests expected in Athens December 6

Event

Protests are expected in Athens amid an increased security measures on Thursday, December 6, in observance of the 10th anniversary of the killing of teenager Alexandros Grigoropoulos by police in the Exarcheia neighborhood of the capital. Leftist political parties and sympathetic groups plan to stage a march in the capital. Some 5000 police officers will be deployed across the city to prevent violence during the demonstration; a notably heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Exarcheia and in the vicinity of National Technical University.

Transportation disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites. Clashes between demonstrators and police cannot be ruled out. Related protests are possible in other cities.

Context

Grigoropoulos was killed by Athenian police officers in 2008. Demonstrations are held annually on December 6 to mark the anniversary of his death; clashes have been consistently reported during the protests in recent years.

Advice

Individuals in Athens and other affected cities are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations due to the potential for violence, and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.