As a leading globally connected network for higher arts education, ELIA expresses its solidarity with the students, staff, artists and other cultural professionals peacefully protesting against Presidential Decree 85/2022 in Greece.  

 

We recognise the importance of higher arts education in its different forms, and the value of institutions providing that education. We urge the Greek government to continue  serious dialogue with the performing arts (education) sector, revise the decree as needed, and find a shared solution. 

 

The Presidential Decree 85/2022 (dated December 17, 2022) downgrades degrees from institutions offering higher education in the performing arts to the same level as secondary education and post-secondary vocational education (EQF level 5). The affected performing arts education institutions are public institutions under the authority of the Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports. They were until now considered providers of higher education. Not only does the new decree present a considerable downgrading, but also a lack of recognition of the performing arts education institutions and professions they represent. 

 

Performing arts students and graduates, as well as the educators and staff members working at the affected institutions have been leading protests urging the government to revise the decree since its announcement. In the past week protests have intensified, students are occupying academic buildings, and numerous staff members have resigned. The protests are broadly supported by the performing arts sector, as well as by students and staff from other arts disciplines and institutions. The government met with several representatives from the sector on Wednesday, 15 February, but the issue has not yet been resolved.   

 

The Greek performing arts sector is particularly concerned about the future of their artistic disciplines and the recognition of their work. The decree could also further impact working conditions for graduates in the performing arts and performing arts professionals. ELIA is deeply concerned about these current developments affecting higher education in performing arts in Greece, and the precedent it might set.  

 

 

 

The decree does not directly affect arts faculties that are part of larger universities.