Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Governor proposes measures to address demographic challenges
Christodoulos Topsidis, Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMT), outlined the region’s strategy to tackle demographic challenges during a seminar hosted by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family on “Social Cohesion & Regional Development”, held at the Municipal Theater of Piraeus. The event was attended by Minister Domna Michailidou and regional governors from across Greece.
Topsidis emphasized that demographic issues are critical for the present and future, and presented a comprehensive set of actions aimed at strengthening social cohesion, boosting employment, and supporting families.
Key Initiatives and Investments
Childcare and Youth Support: Over 1,600 infants, toddlers, and children will benefit from vouchers totaling €4.4 million for free access to nurseries, childcare centers (KDAP), and centers for children with disabilities (KDAP AMEA).
Support for the Elderly: The region is creating Elderly Care Centers and introducing a new 24-hour monitoring and telephone support program for 1,500 seniors starting in 2026.
Programs for People with Disabilities: Establishment of new Supported Living Homes, day centers, autism care facilities, and residential programs for adults with intellectual disabilities.
Employment for Highly Qualified Individuals: Successful initiatives have recruited 292 highly qualified unemployed individuals (PhD, postgraduate, and university degree holders) into local businesses, with the budget increased from €12 million to €18 million through over-allocation. Parallel programs support entrepreneurship among unemployed residents, contributing to local development and reducing brain drain.
Affordable Housing Initiative
Recognizing that housing is central to retaining and attracting young families, AMTH will implement a €10 million Affordable Housing program under the 2nd revision of the EU Structural Funds (ESPA). The program includes:
- Renovation and energy-efficient upgrades of older private homes.
- Utilization of municipal and regional buildings for long-term rental to essential workers in schools, hospitals, police, and other social services.
- Integration with European Social Fund resources to provide targeted housing support, including rent subsidies, for individuals and families at risk of homelessness or social exclusion, linked to employment programs.
Demographic Policy Observatory
Governor Topsidis also highlighted the Demographic Policy Observatory, a government-aligned tool that monitors trends, evaluates key indicators, and designs policies to increase birth rates, employment, and social cohesion in the region.
Concluding his presentation, Topsidis stressed that these measures are part of a coherent strategy linking development, social policy, and family support, aiming to transform demographic concerns into targeted and effective actions.
