Greek fiscal council to assess parties' election pledges

Greece's independent Hellenic Fiscal Council (Hfisc) will begin assessing the fiscal impact of political parties' policy proposals from November in a move aimed at increasing transparency ahead of elections.

Participation will be voluntary, with the council evaluating proposals estimated to have a budgetary impact of at least €50 million. Assessments will examine both short- and medium-term effects—up to four years—and, where a quantitative estimate is not possible, the council may issue a qualitative opinion.

Hfisc President Anastasia Miaouli said the initiative would help voters better understand the fiscal implications of pre-election promises while improving the quality of public debate.

Under the framework, parties must submit proposals at least four months before an election, although the possibility of snap elections could discourage participation. The council also said it will not publish assessments during the final month of an election campaign.

It remains unclear whether political parties will choose to submit their proposals for independent scrutiny.