In response to a parliamentary question by MEP Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI) following the death of teacher Sofia Christidou in Thessaloniki, Executive Vice-President Mînzatu indicated on 20 July 2026 that the Commission is reviewing EU workplace safety directives to better address psychosocial risks, including violence and harassment in schools. The answer points to a potential revision of the Workplace Directive and Display Screen Directive under the forthcoming Quality Jobs Act, aiming to improve worker protection in the digital transition while avoiding unnecessary burdens on companies. This could affect teachers and other education staff across the EU, as well as national authorities responsible for implementing occupational safety rules.
Mînzatu cited Eurostat data showing no fatal accidents in Greece's education sector from 2014 to 2023, but a rise in non-fatal cases from 42 in 2021 to 54 in 2023. She also referenced the 2024 ESENER survey, where 85% of Greek education respondents reported dealing with difficult customers, patients, or pupils. The Commission's review of the Framework Directive on Safety and Health at Work (89/391/EEC) and 23 related directives, covering 2018-2022, is expected later in 2026. The answer does not propose a specific European recording mechanism but notes that the EU Teachers and Trainers Agenda, part of the Union of Skills, will cover working conditions. The Commission also supports teacher safety through guidelines on wellbeing and mental health in schools.