The Greek government is taking concrete steps to evict squatters from the Prosfygika apartment complex on Alexandras Avenue in Athens, a historic housing block that has been neglected for over 25 years. A restoration and landscaping plan has already been set in motion by the Attica Regional Authority, within the constraints imposed by the buildings’ protected heritage status. The process was further accelerated following a vandalism attack on the residence of Attica Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias late Monday night.
Konstantinos Kyranakis, Secretary of the Political Committee of New Democracy, stated that the government has taken measures to remove both squatters and individuals with criminal records from the buildings. The stated goal is to convert the complex into social housing and into accommodations for the families of oncology patients being treated at the neighboring Agios Savvas Cancer Hospital, a plan already incorporated into the Attica Regional Authority’s development agenda.
Hardalias: “No One Will Intimidate Us”
In a public statement, the Governor of Attica described the attack on his home as a disgraceful act of vandalism and an assault on an entire neighborhood. He characterized the situation as the product of decades of government inaction that had allowed the Prosfygika to become a lawless, ungoverned space. He stressed that the Regional Authority did not create the problem but had been the only body to put forward a concrete, viable plan for dignified housing for all residents without demolitions or commercialization. He rejected any solution negotiated under conditions of blackmail and intimidation, and called on the state to finally enforce the law. He concluded by saying that no one would succeed in frightening them, and that they would continue pursuing real solutions rather than slogans.
In a video posted Monday morning, Hardalias had also reiterated that no current resident of the Prosfygika would be left without support, calling it a non-negotiable commitment. At the same time, he noted that informal, rule-free occupation of public buildings cannot be considered social policy, and pointed out that no one can say with certainty today exactly who lives in the complex or how many people are there. He pledged that the process going forward would follow clear, transparent rules and social criteria, and that those who qualify will have the opportunity to be housed in the newly renovated apartments.
As of Monday, June 22, the Attica Regional Authority launched a dedicated digital platform at frontidaprosf.attica.gov.gr, inviting current residents of the Prosfygika to register their details, needs, requests, and individual proposals. The platform will remain active through Sunday, July 19.
