U. S. Mission Greece (November 15, 2021)
Location: Expected gathering points are the Athens Polytechnic University, continuing to Syntagma Square and the U.S. Embassy and concluding in Exarchia. For Thessaloniki, demonstrators will gather at the Venizelos Statue (78 Egnatia Street) and march to the Consulate General.
Event: Large demonstrations of 10,000 to 20,000 participants are expected to take place beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 to commemorate the anniversary of the 1973 protests against the then-ruling junta. Road closures in some areas may begin as early as 1:00pm, and severe traffic disruptions are expected when road closures fully take effect by 4:00 p.m.
U.S. government personnel have been advised to avoid the downtown areas of Athens and Thessaloniki in the late afternoon and to stay behind police lines until the Greek authorities announce the conclusion of the event. U.S. Embassy Athens and U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki will be closed beginning at 3:00 p.m. In the past, some demonstrations commemorating this date turned violent and led to the destruction of property. There is a potential for tear-gas and anti-riot engagement between police and demonstrators.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep a low profile.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Review your travel plans.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Athens
+(30) 210-721-2951
AthensAmericanCitizenServices@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki
+(30) 2310-376-300
State Department – Consular Affairs
(888) 407-4747 or (202) 501-4444
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