Study warns Greece’s growing laws are burdening governance

Greece’s rapid increase in legislation has created a complex regulatory system that fuels bureaucracy, slows investment and weakens public trust, according to a new Dianeosis study covering 2001-2025.

According to Kathimerini, the study found that Greece passes around 100 new laws each year, alongside thousands of ministerial decisions and regulations. Government Gazette publications increased from 1,831 in 2001 to 7,790 in 2024, reflecting what researchers described as a “regulatory explosion.”

Despite the growing number of laws, many economic, social and technological issues remain insufficiently regulated, leading to what researchers call “bad lawmaking.”

Crises and politics drive legal growth

Researchers said major events, including the financial crisis, bailout period and Covid-19 pandemic, accelerated legislation but often increased complexity rather than improving legal quality.

“The ideal form of regulation is fewer laws with more general criteria for broader issues. By contrast, our laws contain incredible detail,” said Dimitri A. Sotiropoulos, professor of political science at the University of Athens.

The study also identified political incentives, frequent legal changes by new governments and the use of broad omnibus bills as key factors behind the expansion of legislation.

Calls for simpler legal framework

The growing complexity has increased compliance costs for businesses, particularly smaller companies that must constantly monitor legal changes.

Researchers recommended stronger implementation of existing reforms, a specialized civil service team for legal drafting, fewer political appointments and better organization of laws by policy area.

The study concluded that Greece needs fewer but clearer laws to improve governance and restore public confidence.