On May 12, 2026, individuals belonging to an anarchist group attacked students at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Shortly before 10 am, a group of anti-authoritarian activists entered the university’s Polytechnic School, wearing helmets and armed with flares and sticks. Throwing smoke bombs inside the building, they attacked nearby students. Seven students were hospitalized with fractures, bruises, or abrasions. The smoke bombs also damaged university infrastructure.

Scholars at Risk is concerned about violent and destructive attacks on campus. Students and members of the public must refrain from violence, especially on campus, and respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. State authorities should take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of scholars, students, and staff, including by investigating and holding perpetrators of such acts responsible, in line with international human rights standards. In addition to the harm to the immediate victims, such actions undermine academic freedom and democratic society generally.

Sources:
https://www.abc.com.py/internacionales/2026/05/12/siete-estudiantes-heridos-por-ataques-de-un-grupo-anarquista-en-una-universidad-en-grecia/
https://en.protothema.gr/2026/05/12/wild-attack-by-anarchists-with-clubs-on-students-inside-the-aristotle-university-of-thessaloniki-auth-6-injured/
https://www.tovima.com/society/anarchist-group-attacks-students-at-aristotle-university/