The U.S. Mission in Greece is alerting U.S. citizens of protests planned for Friday, November 17, 2023 in Athens and Thessaloniki. Demo sites often include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
- U.S. Embassy in Athens
- Consulate General of the United States in Thessaloniki
Large demonstrations usually take place every year on November 17 to commemorate the uprising of students of the Polytechnic University of Athens against the ruling military junta in 1973.
In Athens, protesters are expected to converge around 1 p.m. on Athens Polytechnic University and Klathmonos Square from different points in the city, continue to Syntagma Square and up Vasilissis Sofias Avenue to the US Embassy. In preparation, local police will close streets and subway stations near the U.S. Embassy and in downtown Athens, potentially as early as 1 p.m. Serious traffic disruptions are expected. In Thessaloniki, local police are expecting protests and predicting that access to the area surrounding the US Consulate General may be restricted.
Some past protests have turned violent and resulted in destruction of property. There is a risk of the use of tear gas and riot engagements between police and protesters. Events in previous years have brought together between 10,000 and 20,000 participants.
US government personnel have been advised to avoid protests and the city centers of Athens and Thessaloniki. On November 17, 2023, beginning at noon, the U.S. Embassy in Athens and the U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki will close their doors for in-person public services.
Actions to take:
- Avoid demonstration areas.
- Use caution if you unexpectedly find yourself near large gatherings or demonstrations.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy in Athens
+(30) 210-721-2951
AthensAmericanCitizenServices@state.gov
Consulate General of the United States in Thessaloniki
+(30) 2310-376-300
Department of State – Consular Affairs
(888) 407-4747 or (202) 501-4444
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