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Rule of Law and Media Freedom in Greece

COMCMT1R-EP1R-C2R-EPCNCADO

Updated 31mo ago

The European Parliament has expressed serious concerns regarding significant threats to democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights in Greece. It highlights that checks and balances, essential for a strong democracy, are under considerable pressure.

The resolution specifically addresses issues faced by journalists, including physical threats, verbal attacks, privacy violations through spyware, and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs). It also notes concerns about the excessive use of force by police against minority groups and protesters.

Key concerns include the lack of progress in investigating the murder of journalist George Karaivaz, the threat to media pluralism due to concentrated media ownership, and the lack of transparency in state funding for media. The Parliament also calls for strengthened safeguards against the illicit use of surveillance technology.

The Parliament urges Greek authorities to conduct thorough investigations into alleged crimes, drop SLAPP cases, and ensure a safe environment for journalists. It also calls for the full independence of national regulatory authorities and oversight bodies, and for EU funds to be protected and reach citizens.

Documents

Rule of Law and Media freedom in Greece

position · EN · 2026-04-01

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Analysis

AI-generated·2 Apr 2026·Source document·Unverified

The rule of law and media freedom have been deteriorating in Greece in recent years, with ongoing concerns and emerging issues.

What changes

The proposal calls for the urgent restoration and strengthening of institutional and legal safeguards, including effective ex ante and ex post scrutiny, and independent oversight mechanisms to address the illicit use of surveillance technology.
The proposal calls for the urgent repeal of export licenses not fully in line with the Dual-Use Regulation and for an investigation into allegations of illegal exports of surveillance technology.
The proposal calls for the reversal of the 2019 legislative amendment that placed the EYP under the direct control of the Prime Minister.
The proposal calls on the Greek Government to urgently withdraw amendment 826/145 to Law No 2472/1997, which abolished the ability of the ADAE to notify citizens of the confidentiality of communications being lifted.
The proposal calls on the Greek Government to ensure the independence and operational autonomy of independent oversight bodies, such as the Ombudsman, the DPA, and the ADAE.

Expected impact

The European Media Freedom Act is expected to enhance transparency requirements regarding media ownership, the allocation of state funding to media outlets, and the appointment of public service media management.
The Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation is considered of importance for the protection of the EU budget.
The physical threats, verbal attacks, violation of privacy with spyware, and SLAPPs faced by journalists create a chilling effect.

Limitations

The document is a resolution of the European Parliament and does not contain specific legislative text that would allow for a detailed analysis of proposed amendments to existing laws.
The document refers to various reports and regulations (e.g., Commission reports, ECtHR judgments, specific EU regulations) but does not include the full content of these referenced documents, limiting the depth of analysis on specific legal provisions.
The analysis of 'changesSummary' is based on the calls to action and recommendations within the resolution, rather than direct legislative text indicating amendments or new provisions.

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