Greek politicians shun public appearances without police protection

Mayor of Thessaloniki attending education conference under watchful eye of Greek riot police, originally uploaded by Teacher Dude's BBQ.

It's perhaps a stark indication of how threatened Greek politicians feel that Anna Diamantopoulou's (minister for education) presence on the future of university education required the attendence of nearly 100 police officer and secret service members.

Despite press announcements that the conference woud be open to the public, the authorities refused entry to anyone without an invitaion, including university students who wished to take part in the discussions about their future.

Greek riot police teach the true meaning of culture at book signing - Thessaloniki, Greece

Greek riot police teach the true meaning of culture at book signing - Thessaloniki, Greece, originally uploaded by Teacher Dude's BBQ.

The attendence of two government ministers, Anna Diamantopoulou and Evangelios Venizelos at a book presentation in the northern port city of Thessaloniki led to tense scenes between the riot police and teachers.