7 July 2026 22:00 UTC · European Commission · EU Commission Press Release · Source · Email X Link

European Commission refers Greece to CJEU over teacher discrimination

Key points

Refers Greece to the CJEU for failing to align national law with Directive 1999/70/EC
States fixed-term public school teachers receive less favourable conditions on maternity and sick leave

TL;DR

Commission launched infringement in July 2024, sent a reasoned opinion in May 2025, and is referring Greece to the Court of Justice over less favourable treatment of fixed-term public school teachers.

Original text

European Commission - Press release Commission decides to refer Greece to the Court of Justice over discriminatory employment conditions for teachers in public schools Brussels, 8 July 2026 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Greece to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for failing to bring its national legislation fully in line with the Directive on fixed-term work ( Council Directive 1999/70/EC ), which prohibits discrimination against fixed-term workers. Greek law provides for less favourable employment conditions for fixed-term teachers working in public schools compared to permanent teachers, for instance regarding maternity leave and sick leave. The Commission launched this infringement procedure in July 2024 by sending a letter of formal notice to Greece. The explanations provided by Greece in its reply to justify the differences in treatment were unsatisfactory. In May 2025 , the Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Greece. The Commission considers that the explanations provided by Greece do not dispel the Commission's concerns and is therefore referring Greece to the CJEU. Background The Directive on fixed-term work ( Directive 1999/70/EC ) establishes a common EU framework to prevent the misuse of successive fixed-term employment contracts and ensure equal treatment between fixed-term workers and permanent workers. It prohibits less favourable treatment of fixed- term employees unless objectively justified. Member States must ensure the non-discrimination principle through national legislation, collective agreements, or established workplace practices. More information EU infringement procedure Infringement decisions database and infringements map and graphs July 2026 infringement package Infringement procedure Greece ( INFR(2024)4013 ) IP/26/1517 Press contacts: Eva HRNCIROVA (+32 2 29 88433) Eirini ZARKADOULA (+32 2 29 57065) General public inquiries: Europe Direct by phone 00 800 67 89 10 11 or by email

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