Thousands rally in Athens against mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for healthcare workers

More than 5,000 protesters opposed to vaccinations gathered in Athens on Wednesday outside parliament after the government announced mandatory vaccinations for workers in certain sectors. A similar protest was called in the northern city of Thessaloniki. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season. Those in non-compliance face a leave of absence without pay. Public and private sector employers will also have the right to ask employees whether they have been vaccinated. It was also announced that customers could now enter inside restaurants, theatres and bars - but only if they have been vaccinated. About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. Greece has seen an abrupt spike in infections in the last week, with 3,109 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, a level not seen since early April. For more info, please go to