Minister of Education Announces New Measures for University Safety: Penalties for Disruptive Students and Non-compliant Administrations

The recent organized attack by hooded individuals on the Law School and the injury of a student have sparked widespread concern. These events, occurring during a period without active protest, intensify public anxiety and reinforce calls for action against lawlessness in universities. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated that despite past delays, the government is committed to implementing new measures and refining existing legislation to enhance university safety. Acknowledging previous hesitations within political circles regarding post-dictatorship phenomena, Marinakis emphasized current determination across all levels. Minister of Education Sophia Zacharakis will outline proposed measures at a meeting with university presidents in Halkidiki, including permanent expulsion of students convicted of violent acts, financial penalties for property damage, and legal consequences for administrations failing to enforce laws. The government aims to submit comprehensive legislative proposals by July. Criticism from opposition parties was anticipated, with government sources highlighting their lack of support for similar initiatives in 2019.