Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is convening a high-level meeting tomorrow at Maximos Mansion to discuss strengthening security protocols at Greek universities. Attending will be Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki, Deputy Minister for Higher Education Nikos Papaiōannou, and Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis.
The discussion comes amid growing concern following a violent assault during a student event at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens’ Law School. Mitsotakis is notably displeased, viewing this incident as a setback that rekindles a sensitive issue for the government—namely, university safety. He is eager to dispel any perception that higher education institutions are “lawless zones,” especially now, when campus occupations are not widespread. As such, he has called for immediate proposals from the relevant ministers and has urged university rectors to assume their responsibilities.
On the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting are several key points. Government officials acknowledge that the 2021 legal framework, which requires universities to submit security plans to the Ministry of Education, remains largely unimplemented. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis confirmed today (via Action24) that the university police has not been operationalized. Possible measures under discussion include increasing security guard presence at campuses and expanding surveillance camera networks. The government is open to allocating additional funds if necessary, though sources indicate that many university rectors prefer to avoid direct confrontations with “troublemakers,” prioritizing “peace” within their institutions.
Disciplinary actions are also being considered. Marinakis mentioned the possibility of expelling students involved in violent attacks, and linking university funding to compliance with the 2021 security regulations is on the table. Government sources emphasize that the recent assault highlights the urgent need to update and tighten existing policies to ensure the genuine protection of students, faculty, and all citizens on university grounds. The upcoming interventions aim to address these concerns and restore safety and order across Greek universities.
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