06 Mar 2023 | 10:49 AM UTC
Greece: Further strikes and protests over train collision likely in Greece through at least early March /update 2
Further strikes and protests likely in Greece, through at least early March in reaction to fatal train collision in Tempi.
Event
Additional strikes and protests are likely in Greece in response to a deadly train collision near Tempi, Larissa, late Feb. 28.
The Panhellenic Federation of Railway Employees (POS) has extended its nationwide strike action through March 6 to protest the government's alleged negligence that led to the collision. The action has prompted the complete suspension of Hellenic Train services nationwide. The strike has been ongoing since March 2; POS are likely to further extend the strike by 24-48 hour periods over the coming days.
Several unions are also calling for a 24-hour national strike March 8 to denounce the government and rail companies for their alleged responsibility for and response to the collision. As of March 6, unions representing civil servants, hospital doctors, and Piraeus Port employees have joined the call to strike. The strike is likely to be widely observed across multiple sectors, resulting in significant disruption to public services, transport, and business operations in Greece.
Organizing unions are will stage related demonstrations in urban centers across Greece March 8. The largest will likely be in Athens, where activists will gather at the Propylaea from 12:30; attendance could reach into the tens of thousands. In Thessaloniki, activists will gather at the Statue of Venizelos from 12:00 and again from 19:00. Likely locations for demonstrations in other cities include central squares, outside government offices, or outside rail company headquarters.
Additional demonstrations organized by labor unions, opposition political parties, students, and other activist groups relating to the collision are likely in Greek urban centers through early March.
Authorities will likely deploy a heavy police presence around all related gatherings that may materialize. Transport and business disruptions are likely near demonstrations. Clashes have occured between activists and security forces at previous protests relating to the train collision; further clashes are likely at future related demonstrations. Police can be quick to resort to tear gas and other riot control methods against unruly crowds. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence but would face a significant indirect threat of physical harm.
Advice
Confirm schedules if traveling by rail in Greece through early March; make alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Confirm all transport reservations as well as public and private sector appointments in Greece March 8. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
