07 Feb 2024 | 06:48 PM UTC
Greece: Farmers' protests likely to continue and escalate nationwide through at least late February /update 2
Farmers' protests across Greece likely to continue and intensify through at least late February. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Farmers in Greece will likely continue and escalate their ongoing nationwide campaign of protests through at least late February. The purpose of the action is to demand improved working conditions and state assistance to combat rising production costs. Growers, cattle breeders, and beekeepers represented by several agricultural interest groups met in Nikaia on Feb. 6 to coordinate plans to expand their protest movement. Following the meeting, participating farmers staged brief symbolic roadblocks along several major thoroughfares, including the PAThE (the Athens-Thessaloniki or A1 Motorway) and the Old Volos-Larissa Highway. Although organizers have as yet released no details concerning future actions, farmers plan to intensify roadblocks along provincial and national motorways nationwide; they have threatened to stage a new tractor convoy march to Athens during the week of Feb. 12-16 if their demands remain unmet. Moreover, representatives from farm groups in the Central and West Macedonia regions will meet on Feb. 10 to consider organizing a blockade of the nation's borders with Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near rally sites and convoy routes. Rallies are possible in all urban centers. Protests that block major highways are possible nationwide, particularly on critical routes between large cities. Low-level confrontations between demonstrators, law enforcement officers, or frustrated motorists cannot be ruled out.
Avoid rally areas as a standard precaution. Closely monitor travel conditions before departure, particularly if planning to use major highways. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur.
Sporadic demonstrations by farmers have been taking place across Greece since late January. Protesters have staged rallies, go-slow tractor convoys, and roadblocks in various regions, including Chalkidiki, Phthiotis, Thessaly, and Western Greece, as well as in major cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Kalamata, and Heraklion.
