On February 28, 2025, thousands across Greece participated in mass protests and strikes, marking two years since the tragic train disaster near Tempi, which resulted in the deaths of 57 people. This somber anniversary saw the nation grappling with grief and anger as citizens demanded accountability and justice.
The incident occurred on February 28, 2023, when passenger and freight trains collided, primarily killing young students and leaving 88 others injured. The shockwaves from this tragedy still resonate with the public, and as the second anniversary approached, the calls for justice intensified.
Protests began peacefully at Syntagma Square, Athens’ central plaza. People gathered bearing signs with messages like “Murderers’ Government,” reflecting their deep-seated frustration with the authorities. Families of the victims joined forces with ordinary citizens and various labor unions, leading to significant upheaval across the country.
But as the afternoon progressed, the situation escalated. Riots erupted when groups of masked individuals threw Molotov cocktails at police forces stationed outside the parliament building. Law enforcement responded with tear gas and stun grenades, creating chaos amid the demonstrations. Estimates suggested up to 400,000 protesters filled the streets, demanding answers and change.
Reports indicated significant parts of the country were shut down due to the general strike, which included air traffic controllers, maritime workers, and health professionals, grinding many sectors to a halt. With most flights, trains, and ferries suspended, the impact was felt both locally and internationally, stranding travelers amid the turmoil. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called for unity, stating, "Some want to turn collective mourning to opportunity for more divisions." His plea aimed to dissuade the use of the tragedy for political gain.
Despite the government’s promises of modernization and increased safety measures, many citizens felt these measures were insufficient. The opposition parties, alongside the families of the victims, criticized the government for its perceived lack of transparency, raising fears about the investigation's integrity.
Survey results indicated 82% of Greeks viewed the train disaster as the country’s most significant issue, with 66% dissatisfied with the way the investigation was conducted. The collective anger surrounding the case reflects not only the faces of lost loved ones but the broader perception of systemic neglect and political failure.
On this anniversary, the protests extended beyond Greece's borders, with demonstrations reported internationally from various cities like Sydney and New York, showcasing the global solidarity with the victims' families. This widespread outcry emphasizes the lasting impact of the tragedy on the national conscience.
Chaos ensued as tensions peaked, with scenes of destruction marking the protests. Demonstrators clashed with police, capturing national attention and framing the protests as not merely remembrance but as calls for actual change.
Many protesters are adamant about holding those responsible accountable. They assert the tragedy was preventable, attributing it to years of negligence and corruption concerning the country’s railway infrastructure. "We demand accountability for the negligence leading to the tragedy," exclaimed family members of the victims, their voices echoing the sentiments of many.
Despite Mitsotakis’ previous statements promising reforms and the establishment of inquiries, many feel disillusioned. The tragic loss of life two years ago hangs heavy over Greek society, reflected in the current fervor for justice.
While the day culminated with violence, the underlying message remains rooted deeply within the need for justice and comprehensive reforms. The families and protesters demand replies to the unanswered questions haunting the nation since the disaster and seek measures to prevent future tragedies.
Will the government take necessary action to regain public trust? With the future of the investigation still uncertain, the atmosphere among the public grows increasingly tense. The second anniversary of the Tempi train disaster serves as both remembrance and protest, showcasing Greece’s struggle for justice.