Births fall 5.4% in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as demographic crisis deepens
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace recorded a further decline in births in 2025, highlighting the growing demographic challenges facing the region, according to newly released population data.
The region registered 3,154 births against 7,425 deaths during the year, resulting in a negative natural population balance of 4,271 people. The figures indicate that for every birth recorded, more than two deaths occurred, underlining the severity of the demographic downturn.
Among the region's prefectures, Rhodope and Drama reported the most alarming ratios, with approximately 3.3 deaths for every birth. Meriç, Kavala and İskeçe also continued to experience negative demographic trends.
The data further show that birth rates in several parts of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace remain below the national average, raising concerns about long-term population sustainability, workforce availability and regional development prospects. Analysts warn that continued population decline could have significant social and economic consequences for the region in the coming decades.
The latest figures reinforce concerns that Greece's demographic challenge is no longer a long-term issue but an increasingly urgent reality, particularly in northern regions already facing population shrinkage and outward migration.
