In a recent interview with 'Live News', Greece's Minister of Labor Niki Kerameos spoke about the Panagopoulos case, emphasizing that the allegations pertain to an individual and not to the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE). The Minister highlighted the importance of transparency in training programs funded through the European Social Fund (ESF) and reassured that investigations are underway to ensure accountability. Furthermore, she criticized the media representation of the situation, calling it an absolute distortion.

Kerameos also addressed the European Commission's rejection of a significant project aimed at training unemployed individuals, pointing out that a legislative solution has since been proposed. She articulated that the existence of such training programs has been longstanding across numerous administrations and that the recent controversies stem from how these programs are implemented and the roles of the involved national social partners. Defining the issues clearly, she noted that while state cooperation with social partners is essential, the actions of individual organizations must also be critically examined.

As the conversation unfolded, the Minister outlined the necessity of shedding light on these programs, which have operated for decades under various governments. Her statements aimed to clarify misconceptions surrounding the use of ESF programs, asserting that the debates currently taking place should focus on operational performance rather than politicized narratives. The case of Panagopoulos serves as a reminder of the complexities within such social programs and the scrutiny that accompanies allegations of misconduct.