Thousands of students, teachers and public administration workers have protested in Athens, Thessaloniki and other Greek cities, demanding better conditions in schools, higher salaries for teachers and free public education. Protesters have also expressed concern about the rising cost of living and high rent prices, which are making it difficult for young people to live independently.
The demonstrations have been accompanied by strikes in the education sector. The primary school teachers’ union has announced a 24-hour strike, while the secondary school teachers’ federation has announced a three-hour work stoppage.
The protests have been partly fueled by the demonstrations in France and Spain, which have become a source of inspiration for some of the Greek youth. In Athens, in front of the parliament, in Syntagma Square, protesters have placed a large banner with the message: “From Greece to France, we fight for public and free education.”
Students who took part in the rally said they support the demands of the French youth, despite the fact that media attention has focused mainly on episodes of violence during the protests.
“No one questions their message or their concerns, even if the media coverage is mainly focused on violence,” said Fotini, a student in Athens.
She emphasized that the new generation is facing limited economic prospects, despite the sacrifices of their parents.
“Our parents have faced so many hardships and made so many sacrifices, so they are really disappointed and angry that we also have so few prospects. Many of us are forced to still live with our families even after graduating because the cost of living and housing rents are too high,” she declared.
Apart from teaching conditions and salaries, another target of the protesters is private universities. Students oppose the expansion of this sector, which also includes British institutions that have opened branches in the Greek capital.
“No to private universities. Free and modern studies for all,” said another banner placed in Syntagma Square.
Greece has a long history of mass protests, especially during the debt crisis that rocked the country. But for the younger generation that took to the streets this time, at the center of the discontent are the ongoing problems of financing public education, economic difficulties and the lack of opportunities for an independent life after completing their studies.
