Each generation, at some point, is called upon to decide what kind of country it hands over to the next.

It’s not always the election that decides that question. Sometimes it’s a constitutional review. A set of choices that don’t pay off in four years, but shape quietly the way the state has operated for decades. This is the nature of constitutional politics: demanding, far-reaching and often far from easy impressions. That is why it requires planning, seriousness and political courage.

The constitution of 1975 was an act of national reconstruction. It ensured democratic normality, fundamental rights and the institutional continuity of the country after the adventure of dictatorship. Fifty years later, Greece is called upon to meet new challenges: the digital transition, the climate crisis, geopolitical upheavals, the need for stronger institutions and greater competitiveness.

The proposal of the New Democracy for the revision of 57 articles is the largest revision initiative of the post-independence period. It is not limited to piecemeal corrections. Instead,it seeks to open a substantial dialogue on how we want the Greek state to function in the coming decades.

Behind this effort lies a clear strategic vision for the country. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has shown that he sees governance not as a management of the day-to-day but as an opportunity for deep reforms with a view to the future. The constitutional revision is precisely in line with this logic: to create stronger institutions that will shield Greece for future generations and allow the country to confidently meet the demands of the 21st century.

I highlight below some of the most important proposed changes.

The independence of the judiciary. The leadership of the high courts will be selected by a special parliamentary committee from among the senior judges, limiting executive influence. At the same time, a three-year period of incompatibility is introduced for former judges to take up government positions. These are interventions that enhance public confidence in the impartiality of the judiciary.

Fiscal responsibility. The balance of public finances and sustainable fiscal operation are given constitutional backing. The experience of the economic crisis has shown that stability is not only an economic objective, but also a prerequisite for national security and social cohesion.

Education. The possibility of establishing non-state universities, under strict supervision and high academic standards, responds to a reality that for years has been driving thousands of young people abroad. At the same time, the autonomy of public universities is strengthened, aiming at a more outward-looking and competitive education system.

Meritocracy in the Public Sector. The evaluation of civil servants according to objective criteria and the further strengthening of the AΣEP reflect a basic principle: the state must serve the citizen with efficiency, transparency and accountability.

The environment. Environmental protection and addressing the climate crisis are given a stronger constitutional basis, with references to renewable energy, water management and reforestation. This is a legacy of responsibility towards future generations.

The accountability of political staff. The revision of Article 86 on the criminal liability of ministers abolishes the special amortization period that for years created a feeling of unequal treatment. This change reinforces a fundamental democratic principle: that accountability applies to all and that political office cannot act as a privileged exception.

The constitution is not revised by simple majorities. And that is its strength. The process under Article 110 ensures time, dialogue and broader consensus. The present Parliament paves the way and the next one is called upon to make the final decisions, having been preceded by the judgment of the Greek people.

The country we deserve is not just the one we received. It is the one we choose to build.A modern, effective state that is accountable to its citizens, encourages creativity, protects institutions and creates opportunities for all.

This is what this revision proposal attempts to do. Not to rewrite history – but to give it a better continuation.

* Lefteris Avgenakis is a former minister and MP for the Heraklion prefecture of the New Democracy

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