Artists demanding state support march to Parliament
Professionals in the arts industry demonstrated in central Athens on Thursday demanding government action to support their work, which has been severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic.
The protesters, which included representatives from several unions and associations, gathered outside the University of Athens’ central building before marching to Parliament.
Among other things, they are demanding the renewal of relief measures for the arts industry and its professionals.
This includes the continuation of income support by the government to professional artists for the duration of the new lockdown.
They are also critical of the existing system for the disbursement of these payments, and are demanding improved efficiency, since many have not received any income support as far back as November.
The protesters also called for employees in the arts industry to receive the same benefits afforded to other industries, including rent subsidies, a ban on utility companies cutting off their services, and a ban on evictions.
They further oppose proposed legislation on the regulation of audiovisual services, claiming that it will lead to a stifling of expression and to censorship.
The arts industry in Greece has been among those hit hardest by the pandemic as cultural events have been canceled and artistic venues have remained closed for the better part of a year.
