Greece: Students to protest in central Athens and Thessaloniki Jan. 21

Event

Students are planning to demonstrate in Athens and Thessaloniki Jan. 21 to denounce a proposed education bill that would allow police presence on university campuses. Activists intend to gather at 1200 on the Propylaea in Athens and next to the Venizelos statue in Thessaloniki. Further protests over the issue are possible in other cities in the coming days. Likely protest venues include university campuses, Ministry of Education offices, and central city squares.

Authorities will deploy additional police to any protest areas. Increased security measures, including movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized transport disruptions until the protests have concluded. A related protest on Korai Square in Athens turned violent Jan. 14, with police resorting to riot-control measures, such as tear gas, to restore order. Although bystanders are not likely to be targeted in any violence, they would face a significant indirect threat.

Advice

Exercise caution around any potential protest sites and avoid any protests that may materialize due to the potential for confrontations and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions before traveling in major cities during protests.