Protests against fiscal austerity measures in Greece

In Athens, Greece, thousands of protesters have voiced their strong opposition to the austerity measures unveiled by the government in a bid to ease the country's debt crisis. The measures, aiming to save 4.8 billion euros include higher consumer taxes and cuts to public workers' pay of up to 8 percent.

The protest was held outside the Greek parliament on Friday, as lawmakers approved the measures. It was the biggest outburst of violence since the country's debt crisis escalated late last year. Riot police used tear gas and batons to disperse the unruly crowd. Meanwhile, the country's two largest labor unions held work stoppages to protest against the austerity measures. Hospitals, schools and public transport services were closed down... Other residents in Athens also showed their concern at the difficulties they will face over new fiscal restraints being implemented by the government.

An Athens resident said, "Things are very difficult. People have suffered. We're talking about a situation that has reached its limits... I don't know what to say."

An Athens resident said, "The mere fact that the income and purchasing power of a huge chunk of society are being reduced, will have constant repercussions on all aspects of life."