Greece: Anarchist activists plan to protest in Athens 19:00 July 29

Event

Activists plan to protest in Athens July 29 to demand the release of Yiannis Michaildis, an anarchist activist in detention who was recently denied early release by the courts. Participants plan to gather at Monastiraki Square from 19:00. Officials have banned the action after protests the previous day escalated to clashes with security forces; hundreds of activists could attempt to attend the protest despite the ban.

Authorities will likely deploy tight security measures around Monastiraki Square the evening of July 29, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, to prevent the gathering. Increased security measures will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Clashes are likely should activists attempt to stage the protest despite the ban; police could resort to riot control measures such as tear gas and water cannon against unruly crowds. While bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence they would face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected area the evening of July 29.