The Greek government is enforcing a strict "law and order" approach at universities, in the name of improving safety on campus. At a recent meeting of university rectors, Education Minister Sofia Zaharaki announced a series of tough new measures aimed at tackling violence and misconduct within higher education institutions. Going forward, students found to have committed acts of violence on university premises will face severe consequences. If arrested, their student status can be suspended for up to two years. In the event of a final criminal conviction, they may be permanently expelled from their university. University rectors will be held directly responsible for enforcing these rules. Those who fail to comply could face disciplinary action themselves – including the possibility of losing their positions.

Surveillance on campus and crackdown on student offenses

The government also plans to make controlled entry systems mandatory at all universities, prioritising faculties where disruptive or illegal behaviour is more common. Security plans must be submitted by all institutions by the end of July, with access control systems expected to be fully installed by the end of the year.

These developments form part of a wider government strategy that includes stricter punishment for student offences and tighter oversight of university life. Minister Zaharaki explained that this plan is aimed at tackling any protest or demonstration that the government may classify as an “act of violence”.

Centralised oversight and university accountability

To monitor the implementation of these policies, a digital platform will be used to track progress. The criminal framework is also being tightened, with efforts to fast-track legal proceedings and reduce delays, such as trial postponements and suspended sentences.

In practical terms, if a student is arrested for a criminal act, they may automatically lose their student status for up to 24 months. Permanent expulsion will follow if a court finds them guilty beyond appeal.

Disciplinary committees – currently under individual departments – will now operate at the central administrative level of each university. Rectors will oversee these processes, which will also handle expulsion decisions in cases of confirmed convictions.

Zaharaki expressed optimism about the changes, claiming there is a shared understanding among university leadership that action is needed to stop violence.

“It is our clear responsibility – both the Ministry and university authorities – to stand firmly against lawlessness. Violence has no place in Greek public universities,” she stated.

She also highlighted the need to use existing experience with the law to improve and strengthen it. “We’ve decided as a government to be extremely strict in enforcing the law,” Zaharaki said, noting that many universities have already submitted their safety plans and more updates are expected soon.

“All actions and progress will be logged on a digital platform,” she added.

“We, as political leadership, will track exactly how implementation is progressing, and priority will be given to faculties where problems are most severe. Controlled access will not be applied uniformly, but where it’s needed most.”

She also mentioned that many institutions have already made use of the €10 million funding made available in 2021. Once universities assess their needs – such as access systems and student ID card upgrades – the Ministry is open to providing additional emergency funding.

Upcoming changes to student status rules

On the matter of tougher criminal consequences for students, Zaharaki stressed the need for change.

“We’re working towards stricter legal provisions, speeding up trials, and limiting postponements and suspended sentences. The feeling that people can get away with serious offences must end.”

The new rules mean that suspension of student status following arrest will happen automatically, with a scale of penalties depending on the nature of the offence.

“This marks a major shift in how universities deal with violent or criminal behaviour,” she noted.

Regarding disciplinary boards, the Minister acknowledged that many universities have struggled to form them under current structures. Moving them to the central university administration is intended to simplify the process, especially in cases that could lead to permanent expulsions after a final conviction.

Zaharaki insisted these measures are not open-ended. Universities have three months to submit their safety plans, and all necessary infrastructure – such as access systems – must be installed by year-end.

“We are ready to fund anything else deemed necessary. It’s crucial to send a clear message: zero tolerance for violence and no retreat from that position.”

On the topic of students who have exceeded the maximum duration of their studies, the Minister said a new law would be introduced in June. This legislation will distinguish between active and inactive students based on factors such as exam participation, coursework, internships, or ECTS credits. Exceptions will be made for working students, those with disabilities, or serious health issues.

Since 2019, Zaharaki added, the Ministry has increased the university budget by 116%, and the number of academic staff has doubled. Additional emergency funding and support through international partnerships – already totalling over €70 million – is also on the table.

Deputy Minister Nikos Papaioannou echoed these sentiments:

“Universities are self-governing, but that does not mean they should be run by a select few. Today’s discussion and upcoming legislation aim to put an end to campus violence once and for all.”

Summary of key government measures:

  • Universities must submit security plans by July 2025.
  • Controlled entry systems must be in place by the end of 2025.
  • Priority implementation at faculties with frequent misconduct.
  • Progress tracked through a central digital platform.
  • Suspension of student status for up to 24 months upon arrest.
  • Permanent expulsion for students with final criminal convictions.
  • Faster legal proceedings with fewer delays or suspended sentences.
  • Centralised disciplinary committees to handle expulsions and other cases.
  • Rectors held accountable for enforcement; sanctions possible for non-compliance.
  • Legal changes to distinguish between active and inactive students, with special provisions for certain groups.

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