Dialogos

Proposal to Examine Migrant Children's Greek Language Skills Sparks Outcry

Published March 3, 2026, 09:02
Proposal to Examine Migrant Children's Greek Language Skills Sparks Outcry

The proposal by MP Pavlos Mylonas to examine the Greek language skills of children with a migrant background before their admission to public schools has sparked strong reactions from the Progressive Movement of Teachers and Nursery School Teachers. The organization describes the proposal as a “mechanism of exclusion” and argues that public school should be a place of integration and pedagogical support, not exclusion. They emphasize that education is a fundamental right and that the state should provide language support. Research shows that language acquisition is accelerated by the direct integration of children into classes with supportive programs. Teachers are calling on the government to withdraw the proposal and strengthen integration policies.