Thousands March in Athens Protesting Cost of Living, Education Funding
Students and teachers in Greece's capital called for affordable housing and increased state investment in education amidst broader European protests.
Thousands of students and teachers marched through Athens on Wednesday, protesting the rising cost of living and demanding greater state investment in education and affordable student housing. The demonstrations in the Greek capital were part of wider protests occurring across Europe.
Similar marches took place in other Greek cities, including Thessaloniki and Patras. Protesters carried banners that read, "From Greece to France, give money to education," and signs in French stating, "To study or to survive." The demonstrations have been fueled by increased fuel costs and dissatisfaction with the condition of schools and the availability of affordable housing for students.
An engineering student, Panagiotis Moschonas, criticized the government's response, noting that a 120-euro monthly rent subsidy is insufficient to cover even half of a typical rent and is disbursed at the end of the year. Teachers also participated in a strike on Wednesday, with some schools remaining open. Ioannis Rompas, a teacher, stated that the ongoing situation is unsustainable for families struggling with high costs and a deteriorating school system.
Riot police were present, conducting spot checks and bag searches on individuals heading to the protest. Stores and cafes along the march route took precautions by lowering steel shutters, anticipating potential unrest. Demonstrations in Greece have historically seen instances of violence.