EU Commission urges Greece to deliver corruption convictions and safeguard rule of law
The European Commission has issued a stern call to the Greek government to pursue stronger legal action in corruption cases, including those involving high-level officials, as part of its 2025 Rule of Law Report published this week.
While the report acknowledges some positive reforms since July 2024, it delivers blunt criticism of judicial inefficiencies, press freedom concerns, and a lack of progress in tackling major scandals, including the controversial wiretapping case known as PredatorGate.
“Bring us convictions!” appears to be the unspoken but clear message of the Commission’s findings, which highlight the need for final judicial decisions and tangible outcomes in major corruption investigations.
Key Concerns: Justice Delayed, Accountability Denied
According to efsyn.gr, ohe Commission points to ongoing delays in court proceedings and a growing perception of compromised judicial independence, both among Greek citizens and businesses. Despite recent legal reforms, the report warns that it is still “too early” to evaluate their effectiveness.
The document criticizes the exoneration of all state bodies and officials involved in the Predator spyware case, noting the lack of legal consequences and absence of protective legislation against future surveillance.
“All Greek authorities and officials were cleared of responsibility in the Predator spyware investigation,” the report states, highlighting continued legal loopholes in privacy protections.
Furthermore, the Commission raised concerns over Greece’s failure to prosecute corruption cases linked to public funds, such as the illegal agricultural subsidies scandal involving OPEKEPE.
Press Freedom and Journalist Safety Under Scrutiny
The report also addresses the increasing dangers faced by journalists in Greece, especially during public demonstrations. It mentions several recent incidents of threats and violence, including from law enforcement, as well as the unsolved assassination of crime reporter Giorgos Karaivaz.
While acknowledging efforts to improve press protections, the Commission stresses the need for Greece to enhance safeguards for journalists, combat SLAPP lawsuits, and align with EU standards on media safety.
Lack of Progress on Transparency and Civil Society Dialogue
The Commission’s recommendations urge Greece to:
Improve its lobbying regulations, particularly through a clearer legal definition and better enforcement;
Strengthen civil society engagement via a structured dialogue and simpler registration procedures for NGOs;
Adopt long-awaited legal safeguards, such as the presidential decree protecting communication privacy from spyware.
"We’re Watching Closely"
When asked why high-profile cases such as the Tempi train disaster and fraudulent subsidies were not explicitly mentioned in the report, a senior Commission official responded that these issues are “on our radar”, even if not cited by name.
The message from Brussels is clear: Greece must not only legislate reforms but implement them decisively, with visible results that restore public trust and uphold democratic accountability.
