Tens of thousands of Greeks demonstrated Thursday in a massive outpouring of grief and anger on the second anniversary of the Tempe train disaster that killed 57 people, mostly university students.
Protests and memorials were held in 262 cities across Greece and 124 cities abroad, including Belgrade, Rome, London, Paris, Berlin, and New York. Demonstrators in Athens flooded Syntagma Square and surrounding streets, demanding accountability and justice for the victims.
While the demonstrations were largely peaceful, with emotional tributes from families, activists, and artists, isolated clashes erupted between police and small groups of protesters near Parliament.
The February 28, 2023, collision between a passenger train and a freight train near Tempe exposed systemic failures in Greece's rail network and fueled public frustration with the government's response.
The disaster has become a symbol of broader discontent, with many criticizing years of underinvestment in infrastructure and alleged negligence by authorities.
A judicial investigation is ongoing, but progress has been slow, further fueling public anger.
As night fell, candlelight vigils were held across the country in memory of the victims.
The demonstrations served as a powerful reminder of the enduring pain caused by the tragedy and the unwavering demand for accountability and change.