Nationwide Greek Pro-Biking Campaign Launched

The nationwide pro-biking campaign involves over forty Hellenic cities, with the slogan: "Mayors change, claims remain". As reported by Kathimerini, Cyclists Initiative member and coordinator of the Panhellenic drive Lydia Hatzialexiou, described, "Even though bicycle use has increased in Greece in recent years, the situation has not changed in terms of the state's reaction to our requests".

The active biker further commented, "The same scenario has been playing out for years now: pre-election proclamations in favor of bicycles and then bikes being relegated back to the sidelines and becoming window displays after the election. However, we remain adamant in our claims for what ought to be obvious".

The campaigns aims for safer city street, larger biking areas and amenities, and riding regulations. Hatzialexiou stated, "We try to contribute to making sure that bicycle lanes are constructed to the right specifications by participating in discussions at the Transport Ministry. The problem is that many forms of bicycle infrastructure that have been constructed so far have costed more than they needed to, have been done badly and are all over the place".

Hatzialexiou highlighted the need for a proper biking structure in such a desirable climate. The bicyclist advocate added, "It is completely incomprehensible that the state does nothing to help increase the use of bicycles in a country with a climate as warm as Greece. The mass use of bicycles is good for our health, economy and the environment, forming sustainable cities for everyone".