Greek politician Afroditi Latinopoulou has sparked widespread debate after criticising female students over their physical appearance as the new academic year began across Greece.
The president of the Voice of Reason party posted a message on social media wishing pupils well for the school term, but she accompanied her greetings with sharp remarks about classroom attire. She called for the introduction of mandatory school uniforms in Greek educational institutions, arguing that standardized clothing promotes order and discipline among pupils.
Latinopoulou noted that mandatory uniforms are already used successfully in many European countries as well as in expensive private colleges. She added that she would very much like to see similar, attractive uniforms established in state schools throughout Greece.
Classroom appearance and styling critique
Turning her attention to female students, the party leader attacked heavy cosmetic use and extreme beauty trends in classrooms. She denounced pupils who wear long false nails, which she described as tyrannosaurus nails, along with heavy false eyelashes that she compared to tents.
Latinopoulou said that classrooms are neither fashion runways nor bouzoukia nightspots. She stated that while long nails, dramatic eyelashes, and evening makeup might be acceptable after school hours if girls want boys to see them that way, such styling has no place during lessons.
Bouzoukia are traditional Greek live music venues and nightclubs associated with late-night entertainment and glamorous evening dress. Greece previously required public school pupils to wear uniforms, but the national requirement was abolished in 1982 to encourage individual expression, leaving state school dress codes mostly informal.
Student respect for teaching staff
In her published statement, Latinopoulou also addressed the relationship between schoolchildren and their instructors, urging pupils to show greater respect to primary and secondary school teachers. She emphasized that teachers are present in classrooms to help children learn, rather than to feel intimidated when entering the room to conduct lessons.
Voice of Reason is a right-wing political party in Greece founded by Latinopoulou, who secured a seat in the European Parliament during the June 2024 elections. The party frequently campaigns on traditional social values, national identity, and stricter discipline within public administration and education.
Her comments have reopened a broad public debate in Greece regarding school decorum, personal expression, and student regulations, with members of the public expressing mixed reactions to her strict stance on classroom appearance.
