Greece has approved sweeping reforms to its disciplinary code for public sector employees, expanding offenses and penalties, and seeking to reduce delays in disciplinary proceedings.

Under the new law, passed by Parliament this week, civil servants who refuse to participate in performance evaluations — either as assessors or being assessed — will face a fine equal to two months’ salary. Repeated refusals over two consecutive years could result in dismissal.

The law also places any employee under automatic suspension if charged with a felony, extending an existing provision that previously applied only to sexual or exploitation-related crimes. Additional penalties include loss of salary grade advancement for up to five years, demotion of up to four pay grades, and bans on holding supervisory posts. Some violations may also carry administrative fines ranging from €3,000 to €100,000.

For the first time, the system introduces a “disciplinary settlement” scheme, allowing employees facing lesser charges to seek reduced penalties if they admit wrongdoing and repay any damages.

The legislation creates a new Public Sector Human Resources Disciplinary Council to replace existing boards. Staffed exclusively by 60 full-time state legal advisers, the body will handle cases in three- or five-member panels, excluding union or employee representatives. Lawmakers said the change aims to resolve lengthy backlogs – currently around 2,300 cases – that can take more than five years to conclude.

The reforms, introduced by Interior Minister Thodoris Livanios, will take effect beginning in 2026.

Unions have reacted to the legislation, holding a 24-hour strike earlier this week and vowing more action.