The scandalous dismissal of a teacher in Greece has once again reminded Spaniards of the strict restrictions imposed on public servants. The authorities’ decision affected not only the education sector, but also called into question the rights of temporary employees. For many in Spain, this case has become a concerning signal: the boundaries between private initiative and government service are becoming increasingly rigid.
At the center of the story is a primary school teacher who was preparing to start work on a temporary contract. Her name has not been disclosed, but it is known that she had been hired as a substitute teacher for the 2025–2026 academic year. However, during the paperwork process, it emerged that the woman was actively managing tourist accommodation, listing it on a popular short-term rental platform.
Business ban
Greek law strictly forbids public servants from engaging in commercial activities. Even when it comes to a temporary contract, the rules remain the same. In this case, officials from the Ministry of Education acted swiftly: as soon as they learned about the teacher’s business activities, her contract was immediately cancelled.
The reason goes beyond a technical violation. Authorities emphasize that letting property through Airbnb is not just passive income, but full-scale entrepreneurial activity. It involves advertising, guest management, cleaning, changing linens, and ongoing interaction with clients. All of this, in the officials’ view, is incompatible with working for the state.
Legal nuances
The decision is based on Article 31, paragraph 3 of the Greek Civil Service Code (Law 3528/2007). This document prohibits civil servants from engaging in any form of commerce. The ban applies not only to permanent employees but also to temporary staff with fixed-term contracts.
Legal authorities in the country have repeatedly confirmed: renting property to tourists is not just leasing, but precisely a business activity. If a person regularly hosts guests, handles cleaning, and promotes the property, they are considered an entrepreneur. Such status is incompatible with employment in the public sector.
Reaction and consequences
The case sparked heated debate among teachers and officials. Some believe the ban is too strict and doesn’t reflect today’s realities. Others insist that public servants should be fully dedicated to their duties and not have any outside income.
For Spanish civil servants, this story became a reason to reflect on their own restrictions. Spain also has strict rules forbidding officials from running businesses without special permission. However, such severe dismissals are rare, making the Greek case particularly noteworthy.
Similar cases
In recent years, debates have intensified across Europe about where the line lies between private enterprise and public service. In Italy and France, there have been instances of teachers and doctors being penalized for taking secondary jobs in the private sector. In Germany, the issue of whether civil servants are allowed to rent out property has been debated, though decisions have been made on a case-by-case basis. In Spain, such conflicts are most often resolved with a warning or temporary suspension rather than immediate dismissal. Nevertheless, the trend toward tighter control of secondary employment among public sector workers is becoming increasingly noticeable.
