The debate on private universities in Greece will start today at the Greek Parliament, ahead of the vote on the bill slotted for this Friday, March 8.
The measure has been a cornerstone of the New Democracy’s political platform for decades but has faced difficulties as it requires a circumventing or amendment of Article 16 of the Greek constitution.
Despite being vehemently contested by the left, which supports the sole operation of public and “free” universities in Greece, reports expect that the measure will ultimately be passed by New Democracy’s parliamentary majority.
The draft law was initially presented at Greece’s Ministers Council shortly before the end of 2023 and since has been the source of protests and student and professor mobilizations throughout the country.
The passage of the law is expected to significantly impact the higher education landscape of Greece, which until now is one of only two EU countries that doesn’t allow the operation of private universities.
