What is Greece planning for Western Thrace under the national demographic action plan?
At the center of this initiative is the government’s National Demographic Action Plan, designed to reverse demographic decline in northern Greece through targeted relocation incentives.
€10,000 Incentive for Permanent Relocation
Under the expanded program, Greek citizens who permanently relocate to selected regional units — including Kastoria, Kilkis, Serres, Florina, Pella, Drama, Kozani and Grevena — will receive financial support of €10,000. The first installment will be paid before relocation.
The program also applies to Greeks living abroad, remote workers, and retirees. To qualify, applicants must prove residence outside the designated regions for at least the past five years.
The government aims to counter long-term population decline and stimulate regional revitalization in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
Concerns from Western Thrace Representatives
Commenting on the initiative, Halit Habip Oğlu, President of the Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF), stated that while financial incentives may partially address demographic decline, they are insufficient on their own.
Habip Oğlu emphasized that without concrete economic investments and job creation, sustainable social and economic development in Western Thrace cannot be achieved.
He recalled that the cross-party Thrace Development Commission delivered its final report in November 2021, yet tangible initiatives for the economic advancement of Western Thrace have not materialized.
“Due to limited employment opportunities in Western Thrace, thousands of members of our community migrate each year in search of a better future,” he noted.
He further argued that the government should implement a holistic development strategy benefiting all residents of the region, rather than focusing solely on demographic growth.
“Otherwise,” he added, “questions may arise as to whether there is another underlying plan behind encouraging permanent settlement from other parts of the country and abroad.”
A Broader Strategic Shift?
The National Demographic Action Plan represents one of the most ambitious population policy interventions in recent years. However, its long-term impact on Western Thrace — a region marked by economic challenges and demographic shifts — will depend largely on whether financial incentives are accompanied by structural investments, employment programs, and inclusive regional planning.
Further details regarding implementation timelines and regional coordination are expected in the coming weeks.
