The May Day gatherings are concluding — the streets in downtown Athens are reopening.

Major demonstrations and marches are currently taking place across Greece as part of May Day celebrations, with key events happening in central Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. The rallies honor the historic workers’ struggles and are centered on advocating for improved labor rights and conditions.

In Athens, the main gathering is happening at Syntagma Square, where the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE), the Civil Servants’ Confederation (ADEDY), and the Athens Labor Center are voicing messages of “Workplace dignity, fair wages, quality of life.” Protesters are already marching through city streets, with similar demonstrations occurring in Thessaloniki at Venizelos Statue and the White Tower area.

In Patras, the local labor center organized a rally at Georgiou Square followed by a march through the city’s main roads, with participation from workers from both private and public sectors, student groups, and various organizations. However, the day was also marked by clashes, as approximately 100 individuals from the anarchist movement blocked the Corinthou street.

Road closures have been implemented in key parts of Athens, and public transportation is operating with adjusted schedules to assist commuters. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed via real-time updates through official channels and live streams.

Among the notable issues raised was the case of former Hellenic Train employee Kostas Gendedounias, who was suddenly dismissed. He believes his firing is linked to his efforts to uncover responsibilities related to the Tempi train tragedy. The GSEE condemns the dismissal and demands protection for workers and whistleblowers.

Protesters continue their mobilizations, demanding workers’ rights and better working conditions, with ongoing live coverage and photo updates from demonstrations around the country.

Photographs from the rally in Patras

Rally in Thessaloniki

During the May Day march at Syntagma Square, Kostas Gendidounias expressed his surprise over his sudden dismissal from Hellenic Train. He stated that he had no prior disciplinary issues with the company and had never involved supervisory bodies in his 22 years of service. Gendidounias linked his firing to his efforts to uncover responsibilities related to the Tempi train tragedy, suggesting that others who spoke out faced similar treatment. The General Secretary of GSEE, Nikos Fotopoulos, condemned the company’s actions, emphasizing that, according to legislation, they should have protected him as a whistleblower acting in the public interest, given his cooperation with justice.

Rally in Thessaloniki

Message from Prime Minister Mitsotakis on TikTok