Greece Proposes Ban on Protests at Tomb of Unknown Soldier, Sparks Opposition Outcry

Government Tables Amendment for Monument Protection

Greece's conservative government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has submitted an amendment to legislation governing the care of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens. The proposal, tabled on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, aims to prohibit protests and physical alterations at the iconic monument, allowing only visits to pay tribute or view the relief. Violators of the proposed ban could face a fine or up to one year's imprisonment.

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis stated that the amendment's goal is 'respect, the reinforcement of respect for a sacred monument,' emphasizing that it is not intended to be divisive. Prime Minister Mitsotakis further articulated the government's stance during parliamentary debate, asserting that the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a 'sacred area that doesn't belong to any government, party, organisation or person' and 'is not a board for posting demands.'

Opposition Condemns Move as Unconstitutional

The proposed ban has triggered a significant backlash from opposition parties, who argue it is unconstitutional and infringes upon citizens' rights to free expression and protest. Four opposition parties lodged objections, and the left-wing Syriza party called for a protest in response to the government's initiative. Critics suggest the timing of the amendment is a direct reaction to recent anti-government demonstrations that have utilized the monument as a focal point.

The monument has recently been the site of protests by relatives of the 57 victims of the February 2023 Tempi train crash, Greece's deadliest rail accident. A makeshift memorial, featuring the names of the victims written in red paint, has been established in front of the monument. Panos Ruci, who lost his son in the crash, notably conducted a 23-day hunger strike at the memorial, demanding greater accountability. The crash exposed severe deficiencies in Greece's railway network and fueled widespread anti-government sentiment. Zoe Konstantopoulou, leader of the small Plefsi Eleftherias party, vowed to abolish the new law, stating, 'We will abolish it. Action, life itself, will undo it.'

The Significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Located in front of the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square in Athens, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a cenotaph dedicated to Greek soldiers who died in combat and remain unidentified. Designed by architect Emmanuel Lazaridis and sculpted by Fokion Rok, it was unveiled on March 25, 1932. The monument features a relief of a fallen Greek soldier and is guarded by the Evzones of the Presidential Guard, whose hourly changing ceremony is a popular tourist attraction and a powerful symbol of national respect.

Historically, the monument has served as a significant site for national mourning and reflection, as well as a frequent gathering point for public demonstrations. The government's proposal to restrict its use for protests marks a contentious point in the ongoing debate over public assembly rights in Greece.