Greek President intervenes in wiretapping issue

The President of the Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, took a position on the issue of wiretapping.

The President of the Republic proceeded to intervene on the issue of such surveillance, calling for “the immediate and complete clarification of the case of telephone surveillance.”

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Katerina Sakellaropoulou’s statement

“The protection of the privacy of communication is a fundamental condition of a democratic and liberal society. The exception provided by the Constitution for reasons of national security is related to the need to protect the country in a demanding international environment that requires vigilance and difficult balances.

It must, however, be interpreted narrowly and its application should be consistent with the principles of the rule of law and proportionality. The strict observance of legality and the transparency of state action is not only a guarantee of individual rights, but the most critical indicator of the quality of our democracy. It underpins confidence in our civic contract and the resilience of our culture. It requires the immediate and complete clarification of the case of telephone monitoring, as well as the shielding of the operation of the National Intelligence Agency. With self-restraint and adherence to parliamentary procedures and institutions.

The respect and defense of democracy transcends parties and factions, persons and offices. It is the highest duty of all of us towards the Greek people.”