A working meeting was held today by the Minister Social Cohesion and Families Domna Michailidou with European Commissioner for Middle East, Dubravka Šuica, responsible for demographic issues.
The meeting followed the Commissioner’s meeting with Prime Minister Kyriacos Mitsotakis.
The discussion focused on the demographic challenges facing both Greece and the European Union, at a time when demography is emerging as a top European priority.
The minister presented in detail the pillars of the Greek strategy, underlining the need for a more coordinated European approach, with more effective use of the available financial instruments and strengthening regional cohesion.
At the same time, the importance of the technical assistance that Greece receives through the OECD and the European Commission for the design of national policies was stressed.
Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Affairs, Domna Michailidou, said after the meeting:“We discussed with Mrs. Šuica the demographic issue, an existential challenge that we are already experiencing in Europe, with fertility being far below the replacement threshold. This is not just a crisis, but the most critical stake for the future of the Union, as behind the inexorable numbers lie young people who are putting off having a family because they feel they lack prospects. Faced with this reality, Greece is leading the way with a coherent National Action Plan (2025-2035), which goes beyond piecemeal moves and focuses on the substance: from financial support and widening access to housing, to strengthening employment and reconciling work and family life. Our plan follows life as it is and is a workable model for European countries, demonstrating that tackling demography requires continuity, realism and a common European strategy that offers young people stability. Demography is ultimately a question of trust. It is our responsibility to ensure that future generations have the future they deserve, creating an environment of security and social cohesion.”
For her part, Šuica stressed: “Demography is not only a social policy, but a central element of the European Union’s economic strength and competitiveness. I would like to congratulate Greece for its very ambitious 10-year national plan, which with more than 100 actions represents a strong commitment and shows leadership. Particularly important is the Greek government’s emphasis on regional approaches, setting an excellent example for the rest of Europe. We are entering a new reality of longevity and through tools such as the Demography Toolbox, but also the new Longevity Roadmap, we are ready to support Greece to turn demographic changes into opportunities for prosperity for all generations.”
The meeting confirmed the will to further strengthen cooperation at European level, with a view to developing coherent and effective policies to address demographic challenges.
