Stricter rules for demos and rallies in cities

Seeking to put an end to mass disruptions in the Greek capital and other large cities whenever a march or demonstration is held with a small number of participants, the government has drafted legislation that will be tabled to Parliament imminently. The draft bill also aims to protect cities from violence caused by groups gatecrashing otherwise peaceful rallies.

The bill, seen by Kathimerini and expected to trigger political confrontations, stipulates that marches comprising a small number of people must take place on a designated section of the road, instead of blocking entire avenues and causing major traffic disruptions. It will also allow police to designate an alternate route or area for a march if it threatens to disrupt social and economic activity in a given area.

In addition, each march will be assigned an "organizer" who will also be responsible for ensuring...