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Two years after one of Greece’s worst railway disasters, the country is still reeling from the February 28, 2023, crash in Tempe, where 57 lives were tragically lost. This week, as Greece observes the anniversary of the crash, massive protests and a general strike have brought the nation to a standstill, as survivors, families, and activists continue to demand justice.
Among those lost in the tragedy was 23-year-old Kyprianos Papaioannou, a bright Cypriot law student from the Kokkinochoria "Fotis Pitta" High School in Frenaros. Kyprianos, a talented musician with a passion for Byzantine music, was returning home after a long weekend when the passenger train he was on collided head-on with a freight train. His death, along with that of another Cypriot, Anastasia Adamidou, has left the island in mourning. Kyprianos had been looking forward to graduating from Aristotle University in Thessaloniki and marrying his fiancée later that year — dreams now forever unfulfilled.
To honor his memory, students and staff at Kyprianos’ high school gathered today for a heartfelt memorial. Wearing white sweatshirts emblazoned with his face, the students sang "Why did you put my heart in it?" as a tribute to their late friend. The ceremony, which brought the school community together, reflected not just sorrow, but a collective demand for justice.
Kyprianos’ school principal, Antonis Stavrou, spoke movingly about the loss of a student who was so full of life. "Kyprianos was involved in everything. A law student, a chanter, and a lover of Byzantine music, he had so much promise," Stavrou said. "His future was stolen from him in an instant."
While the ceremony was a somber occasion, it was also a call for action. The families of the victims, including Kyprianos’ loved ones, continue to seek accountability for the crash. Despite a thorough investigation, many feel that the full truth has not come to light, and those responsible — from rail officials to government leaders — have not been held fully accountable.
In Athens and across Greece, protests have erupted over the crash's aftermath, with union leaders, politicians, and everyday citizens calling for action. A massive strike organized by the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) has led to nationwide disruptions, with public transport grounded and many businesses closed. Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the Greek Parliament, chanting for justice. "You count profits. We count lives," they shouted, demanding a full investigation into the systemic failures that led to the disaster.
Union leaders are also calling for better working conditions, particularly for the rail workers who are often exposed to dangerous conditions. Eleven of the victims were railway employees, and many of the protesters say their deaths highlight broader concerns over safety and oversight in Greece’s transportation system.
The outrage over the crash and its aftermath has created a politically charged atmosphere in Greece. While Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has promised to make improvements to the rail system, his government faces growing discontent over its handling of the tragedy. Opposition parties are gaining ground, and there is increasing pressure for those at the top to be held accountable.
"Let’s uncover the full truth, and let’s make sure those who failed the people are held accountable," said Yannis Panagopoulos, president of GSEE. "The demands are simple: justice and better safety measures."
As part of the ongoing protests, memorials were held across the country, including special services for the victims at Orthodox churches in Athens. The families of those lost, while continuing to grieve, have also made it clear that they want their loved ones’ deaths to spark change, not to be forgotten.
*With information from Kathimerini.gr and Reuters
