Solidarity to Greece: Anti-austerity activists hold demonstration in Glasgow over Greek debt crisis
Hundreds have demonstrated solidarity for Greece in Glasgow calling for a solution in crisis talks with Greece. Protesters said Europe should adopt a more open and understanding approach to both issues.
The demonstrations were hosted by Scotland’s Radical Independence Campaign and Scottish Left Project, as well as several other related movements. Local authorities said around 500 people attended the demonstrations, chanting slogans against austerity and inequality.
Protesters gathered outside Glasgow Royal Concert Hall to hear speeches by activists, including Fuad Alakbarov, anti-austerity activist and human rights advocate.
“We are coming together today to stand with the people of Greece and say no to austerity, “Alakbarov said. “Yes to democracy.”
Myrto Tsakatika, one of founders of Syriza Scotland, said: “This is a crossroads not just for Greece and Europe, but for all countries in debt crisis. Greece is standing up for justice, dignity, sovereignty and basic human rights against a broken financial system that is hurting ordinary people everywhere.
“We all need debt cancellation for Greece. Not just because it means justice for the Greek people, but to signal to the banks and financiers that we won’t keep bailing them out for their reckless lending and speculation.”
The Scottish Government has so far remained coy on the Greek crisis, only issuing a statement saying that “brinkmanship” being displayed is “counterproductive”.
The Scottish Radical Independence Campaign has called for a European conference to cancel Greece’s debts.
Jonathon Shafi, one of the organisers of the protest, said that it was important to organise a rally in Glasgow “because what happens over the next few days will impact everyone in Europe.”
Shafi said: “The Troika and the corporate media are ramping up blackmail and fear so it is down to ordinary people to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Greece and that’s what we’ll be doing in Glasgow.
“It is vital that there is a No vote in the referendum in order to keep the international anti austerity movement moving forward,” he continued.
On Saturday, activists expected to stage a protest at outside of the European Commission in Edinburgh.
here is alink to watch some of the demo
featured image provided by Fuad Alkabrov
you can follow Fuad on twitter at @Alakbarov_