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

What happens to a lease in Greece when a landlord dies?

When a landlord passes away, their rights and obligations do not disappear. Instead, they are transferred to their heirs.

Australian and US Greeks drive international demand for The Ellinikon

Residential developments at The Ellinikon continue to attract strong international interest, with buyers coming from more than 110 countries.

Greek school opens in Tanzania, reviving language and culture

The newly established Greek school of the Greek community in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, began operating this year.

Shoulder season travel to Europe gains ground among Australians

The annual stream of European summer holiday photos now seems to stretch well beyond the traditional peak.

Echoes from the past: Bust of the Roman Emperor Hadrian

No other Roman emperor was so influenced by Greek culture, and in return no other Roman shaped Athens so much.

You May Also Like

Vasili’s Taxidi: When Good Businesses Become Great Ones – Hairem Hairdressing

Vasili speaks with Vicky Zafiropoulos, who recently won the prestigious Business Person of the Year award at the Local Business Awards.

Oakleigh Grammar student Noah Peoples wins prestigious Swannie Award

Oakleigh Grammar student Noah Peoples was presented with a prestigious Swannie Award at the Debating Awards night on October 7.

Constantine Nicholas: Exploring identity through art

As a third-generation Greek Australian, Constantine Nicholas' roots trace back to the isle of Kastellorizo.