Greek farmers and other primary-sector workers welcomed the start of 2026 not at home, but on the roads. For the first time in recent memory, representatives of Greece’s agricultural sector, including farmers, livestock breeders, fishers and beekeepers, spent the holiday season alongside their families at roadside protest sites. The demonstrations, which began on Nov. 30, remain in place in many locations as the new year unfolds.

Speaking to To Vima, protest representatives said they are determined to continue for as long as necessary, framing their mobilization as a fight for survival and for the future of their professions. Many expressed hope that 2026 could mark “the beginning of a better future” for Greece’s primary production sector.

No signs of movement, protesters say

More than a month into the protests, demonstrators say they have seen no meaningful shift in the government’s stance, nor concrete actions that would signal progress toward resolving their concerns. Some participants also claim that individuals at the forefront of the protests are being unfairly targeted in various ways.

Despite the pressure, farmers and livestock breeders stress that their presence on the streets is not politically driven.

“We left party affiliations at home,” protesters told To Vima. “No political party is behind this movement, that’s why we are so many. We are united for our future.”

January meeting seen as turning point

On Sunday, Jan. 4, representatives from protest sites across the country are expected to gather for a nationwide conference. The meeting is widely seen as a critical moment, with major decisions anticipated on whether and how the protests will continue.

While it is still early to predict the outcome, indications suggest that demonstrations are likely to persist.

In recent days, some local associations and individual protest sites have signaled interest in opening dialogue with the government. However, the nationwide coordinating committee, which represents the majority of protest sites, appears to favor escalation rather than compromise.

Possibility of intensified action

In the coming weeks, particularly now that the holiday period has ended, protesters may adopt a more forceful approach. This could include blocking major roads, staging demonstrations outside government offices or even protesting near the workplaces of senior officials.