Mînzatu defends EU monitoring of Greek education funds, stresses national responsibility for disability rights

Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu, responding on behalf of the European Commission on 12 June 2026, defended the EU's oversight of co-funded educational programmes in Greece while emphasising that national authorities bear primary responsibility for implementation and compliance with fundamental rights. The answer, addressed to a written question by Greek MEP Elena Kountoura (The Left), signals the Commission's reliance on existing monitoring mechanisms and its limited direct enforcement role in education policy.

Mînzatu's reply confirms that the Commission monitors the implementation of European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) programmes, including those supporting pupils with disabilities, through regular reporting, audits, and meetings with national authorities. She noted that issues such as delays, staff shortages, and gaps in personalised support are assessed to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities are promoted. However, the Commission stopped short of announcing any new measures or investigations specific to Greece, instead reiterating that under shared management, national authorities are responsible for compliance with EU law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

The answer reflects a policy orientation that balances EU-level monitoring with respect for Member State competences in education, as defined by Article 165 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Mînzatu pointed to the enhanced Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities up to 2030 and the European Education Area as frameworks for promoting inclusive education through mutual learning, policy guidance, and funding via Erasmus+ and Cohesion policy funds.

No concrete deadlines, numerical targets, or new enforcement actions were announced. The Commission's response suggests that further action would depend on findings from ongoing monitoring and audits, with no immediate institutional follow-up signalled. Stakeholders impacted include Greek pupils with disabilities and their families, who may continue to face implementation gaps; Greek national authorities, who retain primary responsibility and face scrutiny; and EU institutions, which must balance oversight with limited direct intervention powers in education.