5.6.8
Protection of Persons Reporting Discrimination
The University of Thessaly (UTh) is committed to promoting a culture of equality, transparency, and integrity, ensuring that all members of its community can safely report discrimination, harassment, or unethical behavior without fear of retaliation or harm.
This policy guarantees comprehensive protection for any student, staff member, researcher, or collaborator who reports such incidents in good faith, extending protection in accordance with Greek Laws 4443/2016, 4808/2021, and 4855/2021 (Article 218), as well as the EU Directive 2019/1937 on whistleblower protection.
Purpose and Strategic Framework
This policy seeks to:
Ensure that any individual reporting discrimination or harassment is protected from retaliation, intimidation, or adverse treatment.
Safeguard confidentiality and personal data in the reporting and investigation process.
Encourage the prompt and responsible disclosure of discriminatory practices.
Align University procedures with national and European legislation protecting individuals who contribute to justice and equality.
Reinforce the University’s role as a safe, inclusive, and rights-based institution.
Scope
Applies to all:
Students, academic and administrative staff, researchers, and external partners of the University.
Reports of discrimination, harassment, or misconduct based on gender, race, disability, religion, age, nationality, political opinion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic background.
Reporting conducted through formal or informal channels, including anonymous submissions.
Legal Basis
This policy is grounded in:
Law 4443/2016 on equal treatment and the prohibition of discrimination,
Law 4808/2021 (Articles 9–11) on protection from retaliation and harassment,
Law 4855/2021 (Article 218) on protection of witnesses and public-interest informants from revenge or intimidation, and
EU Directive 2019/1937 on the protection of whistleblowers.
It ensures that individuals who disclose information concerning discrimination or other misconduct enjoy protection similar to that afforded under the national witness protection framework, where applicable.
Key Provisions
- Right to Report
Any individual may report incidents of discrimination, harassment, or unethical behavior to:
The Office of Gender Equality and Diversity,
The Complaints Handling Committee
The Ombudsperson for Students and Staff,
The Ethics and Integrity Committee, or
The Legal Affairs Department.
Reports may be anonymous, confidential, or identified, and can be submitted in writing, electronically, or verbally.
- Protection Against Retaliation
No individual who reports or assists in investigating a complaint shall face any retaliation or adverse action, including dismissal, demotion, grade penalty, or social exclusion.
Retaliation or intimidation against a reporter or witness constitutes a disciplinary offense and may also be legally actionable under Greek and EU law.
- Witness Protection Measures (Law 4855/2021)
Where there is a risk of retaliation or intimidation, the University may implement measures inspired by Article 218 of Law 4855/2021, including:
Confidential handling of personal identity and information,
Restricted disclosure of identifying details,
Physical and digital protection of data,
Temporary relocation or reassignment of duties to protect the reporter or witness, and
Collaboration with law enforcement or judicial authorities where serious offenses or safety risks are involved.
These measures shall be applied with the consent of the reporter and proportionately to the level of risk.
- Confidentiality and Privacy
All reports are treated with strict confidentiality.
The University ensures compliance with GDPR (EU 2016/679) and the Hellenic Data Protection Authority guidelines.
Information will be disclosed only to authorized persons responsible for investigation or where required by law.
- Good Faith and False Reporting
Individuals reporting in good faith are protected even if the investigation does not confirm the allegation.
Malicious or knowingly false reports may lead to disciplinary consequences.
- Investigation and Remedies
The Legal Affairs Department shall investigate reports promptly, impartially, and fairly.
Findings and corrective actions shall be communicated in writing to relevant parties while maintaining confidentiality.
Appropriate disciplinary measures, training, or policy reforms may follow substantiated cases.
- Support and Assistance
Reporters and witnesses will have access to:
Psychological counseling through the University’s KESYPSYS Center,
Legal advice and protection measures, and
Academic or professional accommodations to prevent further distress or disadvantage.
Governance and Oversight
The Rector coordinates the policy’s implementation and awareness initiatives.
The Ethics and Integrity Committee monitors investigations and ensures impartiality.
The Governing Council ensures adequate institutional resources for protection mechanisms.
An annual anonymized report will be submitted to the Governing Council, outlining complaints, investigations, and resolutions.
Review
This policy will be reviewed every two years or sooner if legislative changes occur.
The University of Thessaly reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a community where speaking up against discrimination is encouraged, protected, and valued.