On 23 October 2025, an allegation was published claiming that the Hellenic Police (ELAS) used chemical agents and violence against “teachers, parents, and primary school students protesting outside the offices of the Athens Directorate of Primary Education” in opposition to the Greek government’s education policies.
The publication of the allegation was accompanied by audiovisual material showing riot police units appearing to deploy chemical agents and forcibly push individuals during the protest, while a demonstrator can be heard protesting the use of police violence against primary school students and teachers.
In a state governed by the rule of law, the actions and operation of police authorities must be guided by fundamental principles, including the principle of legality, the principle of proportionality, the prohibition of abuse of police powers, and respect for and protection of human rights. The powers of police authorities and the standards of conduct expected in the performance of their duties are regulated, inter alia, by Presidential Decrees 538/1989, 141/1991, and 254/2004.
Although the police may, under certain circumstances, resort to the use of force in order to enforce the law and protect human rights, this does not mean that every exercise of preventive or coercive force is lawful.
On the contrary, arbitrary use of force and police action exceeding legal limits constitute a dangerous phenomenon in a democratic society.
In light of the above, the present case raises concerns regarding compliance with the legal framework governing the lawful conduct of Hellenic Police officers and the prevention of excessive and arbitrary violence against citizens. These concerns warrant investigation by the competent state authorities and the judiciary.
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