Council of State upholds law on non-state universities in Greece

Greece’s top administrative court, the Council of State, has rejected legal challenges against legislation permitting the operation of non-state universities, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s higher education policy.

The court dismissed three appeals submitted by university professors and the Hellenic Federation of University Teachers’ Associations (POSDEP), which contested the constitutionality of the law enabling the establishment of foreign university branches in Greece.

In its ruling, the Council clarified that the Greek Constitution does not prohibit the operation of foreign university branches from EU countries or those under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), provided a special legal framework ensures educational quality and academic freedom.

The cases were reviewed in April 2025, with the court ultimately finding the legislation compatible with both Greek constitutional principles and European Union law.

Government Welcomes Ruling as Milestone for Reform

Following the decision, National Economy and Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis hailed the ruling as a significant step toward modernizing Greece’s academic landscape.

“This is a justification of our will to tear down walls, break rooted taboos, and overcome ideological obsessions,” said Pierrakakis. He argued that the decision opens up new academic pathways for Greek students who have long faced limited domestic options, often pursuing studies abroad at significant personal and national cost.

“For years, some used the Constitution as a shield to block any change. Now, they must explain to citizens the years of stagnation,” he added.

The minister emphasized that Greece is aligning itself with international education norms, stating that “the coexistence of public universities with non-profit private institutions strengthens academic competitiveness, attracts research investment, and promotes global academic partnerships.”