Thousands of Greeks protest against bill to regulate demonstrations

·

Thousands of Greek protesters rallied in central Athens on Thursday against government plans to regulate frequent street demonstrations which often cause disruption in the city.

Street protests are the main form of opposition against government policies in Greece, a country still recovering from a deep socioeconomic crisis that erupted in late 2009 and led to three international bailouts on tough austerity terms.

As many as 3,500 members and supporters of Greece’s communist party gathered in central Syntagma square to protest legislation now pending in parliament and which is expected to be put to the vote next week.

Members of the Greek Communist Party (KKE) take part in a demonstration against government plans to regulate street protests, in front of the parliament building in Athens, Greece, July 2, 2020. REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis

Demonstrators held banners calling for the bill to be withdrawn, and others calling it an ‘abomination’.

The bill mandates the appointment of a rally organiser who will liaise with police and imposes restrictions on a demonstration if the number of participants is low. It also imposes penalties on people displaying violent behaviour, holding organisers legally responsible for any harm or damage caused by protesters.

“The aim of the bill is to put an end to the chaos created,” government spokesman Stelios Petsas told reporters earlier on Thursday, adding that there were 80 rallies in Athens in May.

Sourced By: Reuters

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

A postcard brought to life: Billy Cotsis explores the soul of Patmos

There is something about the freedom of being out on the Aegean. One can visit small islands, more populated islands, deserted beaches or simply go fishing.

From tragedy to triumph: Christina Vithoulkas becomes Australia’s first female para drifter

Vithoulkas never lost her love for extreme sports. Now 30, she has found the same thrill in drifting—a motorsport where cars slide sideways.

Program of the 11th International Summer University in Boston announced

The 11th International Summer University "Greek Language, Culture and Media" will take place from May 24-29 in Boston.

Hellenic Writer’s Association of Australia hold student literary competition

The Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia has announced its annual Student Literary Competition, titled “From Greece to the World”.

Athens university develops first tool to measure TikTok addiction

A research team from the University of Athens has created the world’s first tool specifically designed to assess addiction to TikTok.

You May Also Like

Debut Greek Language Writers’ Festival unveils unique literary gems

Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant and rich tapestry of Greek literature and culture at the upcoming Greek Language Writers’ Festival.

Greece introduces new restrictions as COVID cases jump to a record 28,828

Greece is introducing new restrictions from Thursday, bringing forward measures planned for early January as coronavirus infections surge.

Christmas carols sung proudly by the Greek community in Sydney and Adelaide

The Greek community in Sydney and Adelaide got into the festive spirit over the weekend with a number of Christmas kalanda events.