Mitsotakis introduces measures to support families and young people
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced a €1.6 billion program aimed at tackling Greece’s declining population. Speaking at the Thessaloniki International Fair, he said the initiative is designed to reduce financial pressures on households and encourage young citizens to remain in the country. Slated to begin in 2026, the package includes broad income tax cuts, targeted support for larger families, reductions in property taxes in rural and island areas, and additional aid for pensioners and households facing high living costs.
Demographic trends heighten urgency
The announcement comes amid growing concern over Greece’s population decline. According to the Hellenic Statistical Authority, only 71,455 children were born in 2023, one of the lowest figures in decades. Fertility rates remain far below replacement levels, while continued emigration has left many towns and villages sparsely populated, placing added strain on the pension system. Mitsotakis described the plan as a critical step to safeguard the country’s long-term social and economic stability.
Critics question effectiveness and budget implications
The initiative has drawn scrutiny from opposition parties and independent analysts, who argue that financial incentives alone may not reverse entrenched demographic trends. Experts emphasize that accessible childcare, affordable housing, and stable employment are key to encouraging families to have more children. Concerns have also been raised about how the €1.6 billion cost will be balanced within Greece’s European Union fiscal obligations. The Finance Ministry is expected to release full legislative details in the coming months, with parliamentary debate scheduled ahead of the program’s rollout in 2026.
