Greece: Further protests by farmers are likely nationwide through early February

Event

Farmers' organizations will likely continue to stage protests on national highways and major roads in Greece through early February. Farmers are demonstrating over several issues, including various agricultural policies that will increase production costs, and the perceived lack of investment in infrastructure to prevent storm damage. They are also calling for increased agricultural subsidies. Demonstrations on Jan. 30 took place in various parts of the Central Macedonia Region, the Epirus Region, the Thessaly Region, and the Central Greece Region.

Scheduled demonstrations on Jan. 31 include a go-slow rally at Corfu International Airport (CFU), as well as rallies and potential roadblocks in Eordaea, Evros, and Filotas. On Feb. 1 confirmed protests include a go-slow demonstration on the provincial road between Pyrgos and Archaia Olympia in Peloponnese Region, as well as rallies in Farsala in Thessaly Region and in the Elia Region. However, organizers typically plan demonstrations via social media and do not confirm exact protest locations with authorities. Accordingly, disruptive rallies and go-slow protests could take place on major roads with little warning.

Authorities will likely monitor the protests and may attempt to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Some clashes between police and protesting farmers were reported on the Karditsa-Larissa Highway early Jan. 30; police used tear gas to disperse the gathering. Localized transport disruptions are likely near protest sites; authorities may divert traffic from the affected areas.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow the instructions of security personnel. Allow additional time to reach destinations near potential demonstration locations. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently.