Thousands of students, teachers and public administration employees have taken to the streets in Athens, Thessaloniki and other cities across Greece, demanding better school conditions, higher salaries for teachers and free public education. Protesters have also expressed concern about the rising cost of living and high rents, 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 declared a 24-hour strike, while the secondary school teachers' federation has announced a three-hour work stoppage.
The protests have been partly inspired by demonstrations in France and Spain, which have become a source of inspiration for some young Greeks. 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 participated in the rally said they support the demands of young French people, despite media attention having focused mainly on episodes of violence during the protests.
“No one questions their message or concerns, even if the media coverage focuses mainly on violence,” said Fotini, a student in Athens.
She emphasized that the younger 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 we graduate because the cost of living and housing rents are too high," she said.
In addition to 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," read another banner placed in Syntagma Square.
Greece has a long history of mass protests, particularly during the debt crisis that rocked the country. But for the younger generation taking to the streets this time, the focus of discontent is the ongoing problems with public education funding, economic hardship and the lack of opportunities for an independent life after graduation.
