Greece: Activists protesting in multiple cities Dec. 13

Event

Several activist groups and organizations are reportedly demonstrating in several cities, including Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, and Rhodes island. Demonstrators gathered at the Propylaia building of the University of Athens in central Athens Dec. 13 to denounce the police shooting of a Roma teenager that occurred in Thessaloniki Dec. 5; the teenager died in a hospital early Dec. 13. Authorities have closed the Panepistimio metro station and have temporarily suspended several bus lines, including 709, 728, 749, 752, and 805, as a security precaution. Additional demonstrations are likely in other Greek cities.

Officials will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in the affected area through at least early Dec. 14. Localized transport disruptions and isolated clashes between demonstrators and police are likely.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a precaution. Plan for localized transport disruptions and consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected area. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.