Riot Police State: A Look Back at 2010

Milos Bicanski/Getty Images for the New York Times

This picture appears in today’s New York Times with a story about confrontations in Athens between police and protesters.  According to the NYT, 20,000 people (union members, civil servants, and private sector workers) took to the streets to oppose austerity measures adopted by the the Greek parliament yesterday.

These measures, which conform to conditions set by the EU and the IMF for a $110 billion loan, include cuts in wages and jobs, as well as legislation to restrict workers’ rights, says the NYT.  The protests were mostly peaceful, though one minister was attacked.

I think the story and photo are emblematic of the kind of year it’s been around the world.  Governments and big business have pillaged jobs, pension plans, and the environment.  There is little or no consultation with voters.  When people speak up, they have to confront scary-looking cops in gas masks and shields. Off the top of my head, here’s a list of places that have produced photos and footage of riot police confronting protesters:  

• Paris
• London
• Athens
• Bangkok
•  Toronto
• Mexico City

Can you think of any others?

P.S.:I don’t condone violence, whether it comes from violent factions and crooks and looters who infiltrate peaceful demos, or cops with batons and tear gas.  PEACE!