Nationwide Protests by Greek Farmers Over Delayed Subsidies

Greek farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen have engaged in widespread protests across the country, primarily focusing on the Port of Volos. These demonstrations, which began intensifying on December 8, 2025, are driven by grievances over delayed European Union (EU) agricultural subsidies and rising production costs. Farmers have mobilized thousands of tractors and trucks, establishing blockades that disrupt major highways and border crossings, including the Promachonas crossing with Bulgaria and the Kipi crossing with Turkey.

Greek Farmers and Livestock Breeders Block the Port of Volos

The protests stem from a significant shortfall of over 600 million euros ($698 million) in EU aid, which has been stalled due to ongoing investigations into a corruption scandal. This scandal involves allegations that some farmers, with the assistance of state employees, faked land ownership to qualify for subsidies. As a result, audits have delayed the disbursement of funds, exacerbating the financial strain on farmers already affected by an outbreak of sheep pox, leading to the culling of hundreds of thousands of livestock.

Protesting Greek farmers close roads, border, airport

On December 10, farmers successfully blocked the Port of Volos, with a strong police presence attempting to manage the situation. Protests also occurred at the international airport in Crete, where farmers clashed with police, leading to temporary flight cancellations. Other significant blockades have been reported at various junctions and highways, including the Egnatia motorway and the Thessaloniki-Kavala national road. Farmers have indicated plans for further escalations, including potential blockades at critical infrastructure sites.

Greek Farmers and Livestock Breeders Block the Port of Volos

The Greek government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has acknowledged the delays in subsidy payments and expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesting farmers. Mitsotakis stated that the government plans to distribute a total of 3.7 billion euros to farmers later this year. However, the farmers remain resolute, with many expressing that the compensation received thus far has been insufficient and delayed.

Protesting Greek farmers close roads, border, airport

Critics of the government argue that the farmers are being unfairly punished for the actions of a few involved in the corruption scandal. Farmers have voiced their frustrations, stating that they feel abandoned and are struggling to sustain their livelihoods due to the funding crisis. Prokopis Bandzis, a farmer from Lesbos, emphasized the need for justice, calling for accountability for those involved in the illegal subsidy schemes.

Protesting Greek farmers close roads, border, airport

• “Climate change has influenced production a great deal, all of this with the (corruption) scandal. People who have nothing to do with the profession are getting enormous amounts. I want there to be justice. Those involved with the illegal subsidies need to account for (their actions).” — Prokopis Bandzis, Farmer

Protesting Greek farmers close roads, border, airport

• “It's a matter of survival,” — Yiannis Koukoutsis, Farmer from Larissa

Reuters

• “We're not backing down. If they want to arrest the thousands of protesting people, let them come and arrest us,” — Costas Sefis, Farmer from Malgara

Reuters

While the government has indicated that aid will be forthcoming, the timeline and specifics remain unclear, leading to skepticism among farmers. Additionally, reports of violence during protests, including clashes with police, have raised concerns about public safety and the potential for further escalation.

Reuters

Farmers plan to continue their protests, with a general strike scheduled for December 16, 2025. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about potential further actions and the government's response to the farmers' demands.

Reuters