Amnesty said the report is based on two years of research and interviews with more than 100 protesters, journalists and lawyers. The organisation said its findings revealed “a persistent pattern of unnecessary or excessive use of force by police during demonstrations.”
The report documented the use of batons, including officers striking demonstrators, chasing protesters and beating individuals who were already under control, as well as incidents involving chemical irritants and water cannons.
Amnesty further alleged the “criminalisation of peaceful protesters,” including people charged for participating in demonstrations or engaging in acts of civil disobedience.
“Participating in or reporting on peaceful protests should not require people to run a gauntlet or risk life and limb,” Gogou said.
She urged Greek authorities to “urgently reform protest laws, end abusive policing practices, protect those exercising their rights and break the cycle of impunity that has allowed these violations to continue.”
“Greek authorities must also end the disturbing pattern of unlawful use of force against protesters and journalists by the police and ban the use of stun grenades in the policing of assemblies,” she added.
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