15 Nov 2024 | 08:35 PM UTC
Greece: Activists to demonstrate in several cities nationwide Nov. 16-17
Activists to protest in several cities across Greece, Nov. 16-17. Heightened security likely.
Activists plan to protest in several cities across Greece Nov. 16 and 17 to observe the 51st anniversary of the Athens Polytechnic uprising. Organizers have announced the following specific events:
Nov. 16
Athens: Rally at the intersection of Stadiou and Khristou Lada streets starting at 14:30;
Chania: Demonstration at Agoras Square at 18:00;
Ioannina: Rally at the Dompoli Student Dormitory at 18:00
Patras: Demonstration at the Old University Annex starting at 18:00;
Thessaloniki: Rally at the Polytechnical School of Aristotle University at 17:00;
Trikala: Demonstration at Riga Feraiou Square starting at 13:00;
Xanthi: Rally at the Prokat at 18:00.
Nov. 17
Athens: Activists to assemble at Klafthmonos Square starting at 15:00 before marching to the US Embassy, then continue to the Embassy of Israel;
Thessaloniki: Demonstration to take place Aristotle University of Thessaloniki's Polytechnic School starting at 17:00.
Similar gatherings are possible in other cities through at least Nov. 18. Potential gathering venues include central squares, government offices, and higher education institutions. It is unclear how many participants will attend the demonstrations, though previous gatherings have attracted large crowds.
Security services will almost certainly deploy enhanced security measures in affected cities as a precautionary measure during the demonstrations. In Athens, authorities will deploy an additional 5,000 police officers and increase surveillance throughout the city. Security will be particularly tight at the National Metsovio Polytechnical University, as well as near the US and Israeli embassies. On Nov. 17, the Syntagma, Monastiraki, Evangelismos, Megaro Muzikis, Omonia, and University metro stations will close at 14:00. Other public transport restrictions may be enacted in the Greek capital or in other cities as the local security situation warrants. Confrontations between police and protesters are possible; security services could use riot control measures such as tear gas and water cannons to disperse unruly crowds.
Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions and allow extra time for travel, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. Monitor local media for updates on commemorative events.
The 1973 Athens Polytechnic uprising was several days of unrest opposing the former ruling Greek junta; the wave of protests ended in an armed crackdown. The uprising subsequently gained significant symbolic value for Greek social activists, and large protests by student groups, unions, and other organizations occur each year to commemorate the anniversary of the event.
