Students protest in Athens over rising housing and living costs

On October 13-14, 2026, student unions held a symbolic protest at Syntagma Square in Athens, pitching tents directly in front of the Hellenic Parliament. The demonstration served as a response to the severe housing crisis and the escalating cost of living affecting young people across the country. Participants warned that without meaningful government intervention to lower rents and improve student welfare, many students face the prospect of homelessness.

Representatives reported that rents for small studios or bachelor apartments now range between 500 and 650 euros, while 25-square-meter units can cost up to 400 euros. Beyond housing, protesters highlighted significant financial struggles regarding food and basic supplies. Tensions rose briefly when activists attempted to approach the Parliament building to display a large banner, though the event remained peaceful. The protesters emphasized that their struggle is a desperate attempt to maintain their ability to attend university while balancing limited personal budgets against inflationary pressures on electricity and essential goods.