“No development without population,” says Eastern Macedonia–Thrace Governor Topsidis during OECD Meeting
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Governor Hristodoulos Topsidis met with an expert delegation from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Dedeağaç as part of ongoing work on addressing the region’s demographic challenges.
The discussions focused on the relationship between population decline and regional economic development, with Topsidis stressing that the two issues cannot be addressed separately.
In his remarks, Topsidis emphasized that investments and job opportunities are key factors in encouraging young people to remain in the region. “Last year, the OECD came to examine how our region can develop. This year, we are discussing how to preserve and strengthen the human capital that supports that development,” he said.
He underlined that the demographic challenge is not limited to birth rates, but is closely linked to employment opportunities, housing availability, quality of life, infrastructure, and the retention of young residents.
Topsidis noted that the forthcoming Regional Action Plan will be based on scientific data and international best practices, with contributions from local authorities, educational and health institutions, the business community, and civil society organizations.
The regional governor stated that Eastern Macedonia and Thrace aims not only to observe demographic trends but to actively develop solutions. He added that the planned strategy is expected to contribute to population retention, attract young people to the region, and build a sustainable future for upcoming generations.
The OECD expert mission is scheduled to continue its working visit until June 5, 2026.
