Greek police unions demand body cameras and vehicle surveillance

Police unions in Athens and Thessaloniki are calling for the immediate implementation of body-worn cameras for officers and surveillance systems for police vehicles. The unions argue that objective recording of police actions serves as a shield for officers and a protection for citizens, while enhancing transparency and accountability.

Despite the establishment of a legal framework via Presidential Decree 75/2020, the unions note that cameras have not been effectively utilized in practice. They have raised concerns regarding a new Presidential Decree (56/2026), questioning whether it addresses previous failures or creates new legal and disciplinary ambiguities for officers operating in unpredictable, fast-moving situations.

The Thessaloniki Police Officers' Union highlighted that a 2022 survey showed 85% of its members support the installation of these cameras. They also questioned the status of a tender for 2,000 body cameras and 400 vehicle cameras announced by the Ministry of Citizen Protection in late 2023, noting that implementation has been inconsistent and insufficient.