Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis has delivered a stark warning to university rectors, saying those who fail to implement government's new crackdown measures on university campuses could be removed from their positions. In a meeting with university rectors, Mitsotakis outlined a series of strict new measures under the banner of "safety on campus." He spoke of "university bullies" and "disruptive minorities," reiterating that students facing prosecution could lose their student status for up to two years. Rectors, he said, must now submit clear plans on how they intend to protect the institutions they lead.

He also announced the appointment of a deputy public prosecutor from the Supreme Court to oversee and expedite legal proceedings related to campus violence nationwide.

Among other points, Mitsotakis stressed that those responsible for damage to university property would bear the financial cost themselves, rather than the universities having to cover the bill.

“It is non-negotiable that everyone should feel safe at their place of study,” he said. “Knowledge brings freedom, and freedom must be rooted in respect for the law. We want universities to be spaces where people feel confident expressing their views, even when there’s disagreement. That’s what freedom of speech is about.”

He added, “We can’t allow any student or professor to feel at the mercy of intimidation or violence. It’s unacceptable.”

Mitsotakis underlined the “government’s unwavering commitment to restoring law and order on campuses”, saying that society expects universities to uphold the law. He mentioned that ten new policy points would soon be announced, aimed at reinforcing the legislative framework already introduced in 2019 and 2021.

“We will close every loophole that currently allows rights to be separated from responsibilities and consequences. Everyone must do their job properly and be held accountable if they don’t,” he said.

A central element of the proposals is the suspension of student status for up to 24 months for those under criminal prosecution. Additionally, he warned that rectors who fail to meet their obligations could face penalties, including dismissal from their role.

“I want to be absolutely clear: there will be consequences. Dismissal is on the table for those rectors who do not fulfil their duties. We can’t continue to let a small minority act as the enforcers of campus life, and we can’t allow illegal acts to go unpunished.”

Mitsotakis described the situation as an ongoing struggle:

“It’s a battle. We know it’s not easy. It’s a war that must be won. We’ve won some battles, lost others, but this path is now unavoidable if we truly want to give the next generation a better future. We need them to trust public universities, and in turn, those universities must help form responsible, thoughtful citizens.”

He concluded by saying, “We can no longer bury our heads in the sand. This is an opportunity to finally and decisively put an end to the problems that have plagued Greek public universities since the post-dictatorship era. This is what the public expects from us, and I believe it’s what students and professors who serve in these institutions want as well.”

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