Greek government submits bill to curb people’s right to protest

·

The Mitsotakis government submitted a bill to Parliament on Monday to impose tighter controls on public demonstrations that frequently block traffic and turn violent.

The bill stipulates that participation in a protest rally held without police permission could be punishable by up to a year in prison.

Protest organisers may also be held liable for damage caused to public or private property during a protest.

The government argues that the changes will protect the right to protest and stop small gatherings from causing extensive disruption to traffic.

Left-wing opposition parties, including the Syriza Party, strongly criticised the plan, describing it as being reminiscent of a right-wing dictatorship in Greece between 1967 and 1974.

The Parliament is expected to vote on the bill by July 10.

A labor union backed by the Greek Communist Party said it planned to defeat the proposal with mass demonstrations.

Greece has a long tradition of public protests and several recent rallies have been held in support of the Black Lives Matter marches in the United States.

READ MORE: Greek demonstrators hurl firebombs towards US embassy in Athens [VIDEO].

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Femicide in Greece: Statistics, stories and the struggle for change

This crime, enacted more often by a partner, ex-partner, or family member, is usually preceded by domestic violence.

Sifnos named top 2026 Greek island escape for Australian travelers

Sifnos, a tranquil jewel of the Cyclades, has been crowned the leading 2026 destination for Australian travelers.

Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards honour service, scholarship and the next generation

The Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards were held at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney on Thursday, February 26.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus to close for three years for major upgrade

The Herodion will shut its doors at the end of July for a three-year restoration program aimed at preserving and modernizing the historic monument,...

Brad Pitt filming his new movie on Hydra island

Hollywood star Brad Pitt has arrived on the cosmopolitan island of Hydra where he is filming scenes for his latest project.

You May Also Like

Greek communities across Australia pay their respects on Remembrance Day

Greek Australians across the country paused at the 11th hour to pay respect to the men and women who've lost their lives in all wars.

Faith, family and food: Greek Australians share how they celebrate Orthodox Easter

What’s Orthodox Easter without yiayia, mum or your favourite theia cooking and ringing you up to remind you about the church services? 

First successful liver transplant from a living donor completed in Greece

A milestone was achieved in the city of Athens, with the first-ever successful liver transplant from a living donor, a father to his daughter.