- On the second anniversary of the Tempi train disaster, Greece witnessed a nationwide shutdown as thousands took to the streets, demanding justice and accountability.
- People are furious over years of government failures, broken promises, slow justice and deeper struggles that have contributed to the lingering anger.
- The unrest in Greece highlights growing public dissatisfaction with economic challenges and political accountability in the region.
On February 28, 2025, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across Greece, marking two years since the Tempi train disaster. The protests, led by students, workers, and grieving families, reflected widespread frustration over what many see as government inaction and a lack of accountability.
Despite initial promises of reforms and justice, protesters argue that little has changed. Many believe the government has failed to implement necessary safety measures, while legal proceedings remain slow. Demonstrators carried photos of the victims and banners demanding transparency, as slogans like “We won’t forget, we won’t forgive” and “I have no oxygen” echoed through the streets.
The Night That Changed Greece
On 28 February 2023, a passenger train, filled with young students, collided head-on with a cargo train near Tempi. The collision, follow-up derailment and fire from the collision killed 57 and injured nearly a hundred. The scene was horrific, but the realization that it was preventable made it worse.
Investigations later revealed what many had feared. An outdated rail system, poor management, ignored warnings, and a government that had failed to act. In the days after the crash, grief turned into rage. Politicians made speeches. They promised reforms. They swore it would never happen again. But two years later, families are still waiting. Survivors are still struggling as the rail system still remains broken.
Why Greeks Took to the Streets Again
The latest protests are not sporadic as it was an explosion of long-simmering frustration. People weren’t just angry about a train crash; they were furious over years of government failures. Broken promises, slow justice and deeper struggles have contributed to the lingering anger.
Despite promises of change, almost nothing has improved. No top officials have been held responsible. The public feels abandoned. Court cases are dragging on, and many fear the guilty will escape punishment through bureaucracy and political connections. Greece is also dealing with rising living costs and economic struggles. This protest wasn’t just about a train crash – it was about years of disappointment.
On the second anniversary of the Tempi train disaster, Greece witnessed a nationwide shutdown as thousands took to the streets, demanding justice and accountability. Workers staged a 24-hour strike, bringing key sectors to a halt. Airports suspended operations, trains ceased running, and ferry services were disrupted as demonstrators voiced their frustration over the government’s failure to implement promised reforms.
The Impact Reaches Beyond Greece
The impact of the protests extends beyond Greece, as European nations closely monitor the situation. The tragedy has raised concerns about railway safety across the continent, prompting governments to reassess their own transport infrastructure and crisis management policies.
Additionally, the unrest highlights growing public dissatisfaction with economic challenges and political accountability in the region. The movement underscores broader concerns about institutional trust and government responsibility, issues that are increasingly resonating across Europe.
With growing rage about the economy in several countries, Greece isn’t the only country struggling. Protests over the rising cost of living are spreading across Europe. The Greek government’s failure to act has sparked a broader conversation in Europe – are democratic institutions failing the people they serve?
Satish Chogule is pursuing a Masters in Political Science at the University of Kolhapur, Maharashtra. He has contributed to several online platforms on international affairs and global developments. Views expressed are the author’s own.
Pranav S 
Balaji Subramanian 
Aayush Pal