Store owners in central Athens have emptied merchandise from display windows and stepped up security measures ahead of a major education protest Wednesday, amid concerns that the demonstration could be followed by unrest.
Retailers began removing products from storefronts Tuesday evening, taking precautions before the demonstration scheduled to begin at noon at Propylaea, in the heart of the Greek capital.
The measures come as images of unrest accompanying recent demonstrations in France, Albania, Italy and elsewhere in Europe have heightened concerns among Athens businesses about possible disturbances or looting.
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Greek police are also mounting a large security operation, with around 3,000 officers from multiple units expected to be deployed to monitor the demonstration and prevent potential incidents.
Police Deploy Across Central Athens
Under the police operational plan, officers will be stationed at key locations across the city center, including government ministries and embassies.
Police will also be deployed at the entrance to Ermou Street, Athens’ main commercial thoroughfare, and around Syntagma Square to protect stores.
Preventive checks will be carried out on people deemed suspicious, according to the information provided.
The Panepistimio metro station, which serves the area around Propylaea and the University of Athens, is scheduled to close at 10 a.m. as part of the security measures.
Retailers have meanwhile been advised to take additional security precautions in case disturbances break out, with several already acting on that guidance.
Education Protest Set for Noon
The measures come as demonstrations by students and university students culminate Wednesday, with teachers and parents also taking part.
The main Athens rally is scheduled for noon at Propylaea, with demonstrations also planned in Thessaloniki and other major Greek cities.
Industrial action is also taking place in the education sector. The Greek Primary Teachers’ Federation, known by its Greek acronym DOE, has called a 24-hour strike, while the secondary school teachers’ federation OLME has announced a three-hour work stoppage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Among educators’ central demands are filling vacant positions in schools through permanent appointments and upgrading school infrastructure to provide safe conditions for students and teachers.
Police will maintain an increased presence in central Athens as authorities implement their special operational plan to monitor the demonstrations and respond to any incidents.