THESSALONIKI, Greece – Farmers across northern Greece have intensified their protests, disrupting traffic at key border crossings on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The demonstrations are a response to ongoing delays in European Union-backed subsidy payments, a situation exacerbated by a widespread corruption scandal.
Border Crossings Blocked, Traffic Diverted
Convoys of tractors effectively shut down routes leading to North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. This action has forced motorists to undertake lengthy detours, causing significant disruption to regional and international travel. The blockades are a direct escalation from weekend protests, where hundreds of farmers used their tractors to obstruct roads in various areas.
Understanding the Root of the Unrest: A Corruption Scandal
While farmer protests are a common occurrence in Greece, the current wave of unrest is uniquely tied to revelations of systematic fraudulent claims for EU funds. This scandal has led to considerable delays in the disbursement of crucial subsidy payments that farmers rely on.
In June, the fallout from the scandal resulted in the resignation of five high-ranking government officials. Concurrently, a state agency responsible for managing agricultural subsidies began a phased shutdown, further complicating the payment process for legitimate claimants.
European Public Prosecutor’s Office Investigation
The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), an independent EU body tasked with combating financial crime, has been at the forefront of the investigation. At the end of October, the EPPO announced that its inquiry was focused on a “systematic large-scale subsidy fraud scheme and money-laundering activities.”
In recent weeks, dozens of individuals across Greece have been arrested in connection with allegedly filing false claims for EU funds, underscoring the breadth and depth of the fraudulent activities uncovered by the investigation.
Government’s Stance and Farmers’ Demands
Greece’s Minister for Public Order addressed the situation earlier this week, stating that the government remains open to dialogue with protest leaders. However, the minister also issued a firm warning, indicating that authorities would not tolerate the closure of critical transit points, including major ports and railway hubs.
The farmers, for their part, are demanding immediate resolution to the delayed subsidy payments and greater transparency in the handling of agricultural funds. They argue that the corruption scandal has unfairly penalized honest farmers, who are now facing financial hardship due to the hold-up of essential EU support.
Impact on the Region
The ongoing blockades at the border crossings are having a tangible impact on trade and transportation across the Balkan region. Businesses relying on cross-border logistics are experiencing delays and increased operational costs. The situation also poses challenges for individuals traveling between Greece and its neighboring countries.
Local authorities, including the police, have been deployed to monitor the protest sites, ensuring that the demonstrations remain peaceful while attempting to manage the flow of traffic and minimize disruption where possible. Police were observed blocking farmers attempting to reach the Promachonas, Serres, border crossing earlier today.
The escalating dispute highlights the significant economic and social consequences of corruption, particularly when it affects vital sectors such as agriculture and the livelihoods of thousands of citizens. As the government seeks a resolution through dialogue, the farmers remain resolute in their demands for prompt payment and accountability.
Source: https://www.thenationalherald.com/farmers-blockade-at-nikaia-strengthening-athens-thessaloniki-motorway-closed/
