14 Apr 2019 | 01:12 PM UTC
Greece: NGO workers call for a demonstration in Exarchia (Athens) April 16
NGO workers plan to go on strike and march in protest of refugee evictions in Exarchia (Athens) on April 16; clashes between protesters and security forces possible
Event
NGO workers and Greek civil society organizations are calling for a strike and a march in Exarchia on Tuesday, April 16, to demonstrate their solidarity with refugees following the raid that took place on Thursday, April 11. Supporters are slated to gather at 12:00 (local time) at the Archaeological Museum.
Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected around the demonstration. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
Police in Athens arrested three people and briefly detained more than 90 others on April 11 in a large operation to evict squatters in two buildings in Athens' central district of Exarchia. The raids took place in buildings on Tzavella Street and Solomou Street. The NGO workers claim that the raid targeted refugees while police say it targeted drug dealers.
Advice
Individuals present in Exarchia, and across Athens more generally, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
