Hellenic Open University labor disputes face parliamentary inquiry

Greek MP Andreas Panagiotopoulos has submitted a parliamentary question calling for urgent intervention by the Ministry of Education to address labor rights issues at the Hellenic Open University (EAP).

The inquiry focuses on two primary concerns: the terms of Private Law Fixed-Term (IDAX) contracts for successful candidates of the ASEP 2K/2025 recruitment process, and reported wage cuts affecting 114 contract workers.

A document from the Ministry of Interior, issued following an intervention by the Ombudsman, reportedly indicates that certain terms in the proposed EAP contracts ‘do not harmonize with applicable legislation.’ Despite previous commitments from the Deputy Minister of Education in June 2026 to revise the contract drafts, the issues remain unresolved.

Internal criticism within the university has also surfaced, with members of the Governing Council citing ‘multiple errors at all levels’ regarding recruitment and management processes. Panagiotopoulos is seeking clarification on whether the Ministry has reviewed the revised contract drafts and if any abusive or illegal terms have been identified.