Zaharakis: "We plan 100 measures worth €20 billion over the next decade to address the demographic challenge"
The Greek government is planning a comprehensive package of 100 measures with a total budget of €20 billion to tackle the country’s demographic challenges, announced the Minister of Family and Social Cohesion, Sofia Zaharakis.
Speaking before Parliament during discussions on the 2025 state budget, Zaharakis unveiled the National Action Plan for Demographics, emphasizing that "economic prosperity is no longer conceivable without a coherent and targeted demographic policy."
While outlining the family support measures for 2025, Zaharakis highlighted the following initiatives:
Birth Allowance: Increased from the original flat €2,000 to a scaled allowance of €2,400 to €3,500 depending on the number of children, costing an additional €31.8 million for 2025.
Childcare Vouchers: Funding increased from €65 million in 2024 to €77 million in 2025 to ensure no family is left without a voucher. This year, the total number of vouchers reached 173,363.
Support for Children with Disabilities: An additional €12 million was allocated to cover all children with disabilities in day centers.
Expansion of Childcare Facilities: €70 million from the Recovery Fund will be used to create 20,000 additional places in existing or new childcare facilities.
Neighborhood Nannies Program: After completing the pilot phase, this program will roll out nationwide in 2025 with a €100 million budget from EU funds.
School Meal Program: Expanded to 153 municipalities, covering 231,062 students daily, with a budget increase from €102 million in 2023 to €115 million in 2024, and an additional €7 million planned for 2025.
Summer Camps: Increased funding from €3.65 million in 2023 to €6 million in 2025 to accommodate more children and elderly participants and improve infrastructure.
Zaharakis emphasized that these measures represent a crucial investment in the country’s future, addressing basic needs and fostering social cohesion.
