Greece ranks second-lowest in EU for judicial system performance
Greece ranks 26th among the European Union’s 27 member states in judicial system performance, with civil cases at first-instance courts taking an average of 737 days to resolve, according to a new index based on 2024 data.
The Judicial System Performance Index (JUSPER), compiled by Greece-based research institute KEFiM, found that the country’s justice system remains significantly below the EU average.
According to figures reported by Anadolu Agency, Greece scored 34.8 out of 100, compared with the EU average of 52.5. Only the Republic of Cyprus ranked lower, with 24.2 points.
GREECE LAGS BEHIND IN JUDICIAL EFFICIENCY
The index evaluates 31 indicators, including court efficiency, financial resources and access to justice. Greece scored 26.1 points for judicial efficiency, significantly below the EU average of 56.4.
Greek courts reportedly resolve approximately 81 cases for every 100 new cases filed, highlighting the challenges facing the country's judicial system.
Despite having 37.3 judges per 100,000 inhabitants, Greece has considerably fewer administrative support staff per judge than many other European countries.
JUDICIAL REFORMS REDUCE WAITING TIMES
However, data from Greece’s Ministry of Justice indicate improvements in court performance following reforms introduced in September 2024.
By March 2026, the average waiting time for first-instance court rulings had fallen from 774 days to 357 days.
The case clearance rate also increased from 86.2% to 105.1%, indicating that courts were resolving more cases than were being newly filed.
KEFiM President Nikos Rompapas called for stronger court administration, increased administrative staffing and wider use of technology to improve the efficiency of the judicial system.
