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Demonstrators held banners calling for the bill to be withdrawn, and others calling it an ‘abomination’.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

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Type 2 diabetes and carbohydrates: Georgia Pandelios on managing blood sugar levels

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal. It occurs when the body is insulin resistant.

Australians of Greek heritage named on the Young Rich List 2023

The 2023 Young Rich List by the Australian Financial Review has been published and at least seven Australians of Greek heritage are there.

George Melissourgos hits back after scathing review on new Adelaide restaurant

The owner of Fire and Vine, George Melissourgos has hit back after a scathing review on his new Adelaide restaurant.