Violence erupts between Greek police and thousands of anti-vaccine protesters in Athens

·

At least five people have been arrested after police clashed with demonstrators protesting against compulsory vaccination in central Athens.

Police fired tear gas, stun grenades and water canon to disperse the crowds from Syntagma Square, in front of the parliament building.

An estimated 3,500 people took part in the protests.

Demonstrators hold a Greek flag during a protest against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccinations outside the parliament building, in Athens, Greece, July 21, 2021. Photo: Reuters/Costas Baltas.

Some protesters wore religious garb while others carried icons and Greek flags. Leaflets from far-right parties were also distributed at the protests. 

According to the police, the trouble started when protesters were requested to clear Amalias Avenue, where they were obstructing traffic.

When protestors started throwing bottles and other objects at the police, the police responded with water canon and tear gas.

A protester scuffles with riot police officers during a protest against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccinations outside the parliament building, in Athens, Greece, July 21, 2021. Photo: Reuters/Costas Baltas.

Outside the University of Athens, there were clashes between anti-authoritarians and anti-vaccination protestors.

Meanwhile in Thessaloniki, citizens, responding to an call put out on the internet, held a rally and march against compulsory vaccination.

The demonstrators gathered in the White Tower and then marched through the main streets of the city, holding banners, Greek flags, crosses and icons and shouting slogans against the government and mandatory vaccination.

Anti-vaccine protesters hold a banner during a rally at Syntagma square, central Athens, on Wednesday, July 21, 2021. Photo: AP Photo/Yorgos Karahalis

These protests come after the Greek Health Ministry submitted an amendment to Parliament on Wednesday according to which healthcare professionals will remain on unpaid leave if they do not get vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Infections in Greece have been rising in recent weeks, and authorities reported almost 3,000 new cases on Wednesday, bringing the total since the pandemic began to 463,473 people. More than 12,800 have died.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

HACCI National Federation holds online event on Greek-Australian trade relations

HACCI National Federation marked a milestone with its inaugural online event ‘Bridging Markets: Greece-Australia Trade Insights’ on March 20.

Genocide mentioned in Victorian Parliament

The movement for the recognition of the Genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks has gained momentum in Victorian Parliament this week.

Evzones to lead ANZAC tributes and cultural celebrations in Adelaide and Sydney

The Evzones will visit Australia from 23 April to 4 May 2025, participating in Anzac Day and a series of cultural events.

Consent education safe as Chanel Contos responds to Dutton’s ‘indoctrination’ pledge

Peter Dutton has pledged a Coalition government would review the national school curriculum to eliminate “indoctrination.”

Alexia Apostolakis joins Matildas as train-on player

Melbourne City defender, Alexia Apostolakis, has been called into the Matildas squad as a train-on player ahead of the upcoming friendlies.

You May Also Like

The 29th Greek Film Festival unveils its dates for 2024

The 29th Greek Film Festival of Australia has announced its screening dates for 2024. Find out the dates here.

Melbourne Synagogue attack sparks tension and counter-terrorism investigation

State and federal counter-terrorism units will meet to discuss the arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea, Melbourne.

Athens art museum becomes more inclusive for visitors with autism

National Museum of Contemporary Art in Athens has teamed up with The Happy Act to make its institution more friendly to visitors with autism.