MacroPolis

Mitsotakis uses healthcare debate to turn anti-SYRIZA rhetoric on PASOK

A full-on attack by PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis during a debate on healthcare reform confirmed PASOK as New Democracy’s chief opponent in Parliament, as the social democrats stand neck-and-neck look to overtake a disintegrating SYRIZA.

Concerns about insipid public consultation process highlighted by treatment of climate plan

By: Georgia Nakou

The track record of public consultations in Greece leaves much to be desired in terms of public engagement and transparency, according to a study commissioned by a leading environmental think tank.

Dead fish in Volos cause big political stink

More than 100 tons of dead fish that washed up off the port city of Volos in central Greece, causing a big stink in Greek politics.

Cost of living remains public's top worry, as government slashes green transition budget

The high cost of living and dissatisfaction with public services and the economy are feeding a pessimistic outlook among Greek voters, who continue to give New Democracy a strong lead over the opposition.

Record year for Greek tourism raises concerns about sustainability

By: Georgia Nakou

Greece received record numbers of visitors and income from tourism in 2023, marking a remarkable comeback from the lean years of the pandemic – but, beneath the surface, the figures give some cause for concern.

PBO draws attention to effects of climate crisis on public finances

The Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) has published its quarterly report, in which it confirmed that - based on data for the first half of 2023 - the Greek economy is on course to reach its growth outlook, although natural disasters over the recent months have clouded the growth and fiscal outlook.

PM pledges another billion for energy bills as govt retreats over environment bill

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has pledged to pull out all the stops to help households deal with high energy bills, although it is not clear that the relief measures are having the desired effect in terms of winning over public opinion.

Fire on outskirts of Athens puts PM's crisis strategy under scrutiny

A large wildfire on the outskirts of Athens broke out on Tuesday, piling fresh pressure on the centre-right government and all but killing off the prospects of snap elections later this year.

Scant recognition of energy crisis in draft climate law, but EU package may force tougher targets

Greece’s first climate law made its way to Parliament this week, with only minor changes in light of public consultation and the unfolding energy crisis. The legislation was tabled on the same day that the European Commission presented its REPowerEU package aimed at cutting dependence on Russian fossil fuels.

PM set to prolong coal use, sparking complaints about energy policy U-turn

A decision to prolong the use life of several coal-burning power stations has put Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on the spot, as opposition parties accuse him of being personally responsible for the energy crisis he is purporting to address.