The speakers described demographic developments in Greece in bleak terms, highlighting the decline in births, the aging of the population, and spatial inequalities, during the conference “Low Birth Rate & Family: Composing Solutions for the Demographic Problem”.
Professor of Social Demography and Statistics Kostas Rontos referred to the severity of the demographic problem and its consequences for the future of Greek society. As he stated, approximately 71,500 births were recorded in 2023, while in 2025 their number fell below 66,000. During the same period, the migration balance was positive, without, however, halting the broader demographic pressures.
He also made special reference to the age at which the first child is born, which has shown a steady increase over time. From 24.2 years in 1980, it reached 31.1 years in 2021 and approximately 32 years in 2024. The delay in having children is one of the parameters linked to developments in fertility and the shaping of family life.
Spatial inequalities and population aging
Professor of Demography at Harokopio University, Alexandra Tragaki, referred to demographic aging and the differences recorded between the regions of the country, noting that Greece is among the most aged countries. As she emphasized, the picture of the country reveals the spatial dimension of demographic changes, as only four regional units have dynamic demographic growth.
Demographic shrinkage, according to her statement, is also linked to the weakening of infrastructure, creating in several areas a sense of decline and abandonment. In this environment, as she said, anger and insecurity are reinforced, while a new map of inequalities is being formed.
She also focused on inequalities concerning housing costs, highlighting the close relationship between housing conditions, the financial capabilities of households, and the prospects of starting a family.
Support for the family and housing at the center
The need for specific interventions aimed at strengthening families and addressing the effects of the housing crisis was highlighted by the Secretary General for Demographic and Housing Policy, Mr. Konstantinos Gloumis Atsalakis.
Among the proposals put forward are a housing renovation program, the utilization and strengthening of programs such as “Exoikonomo”, as well as support for students. At the same time, the importance of broader support for families was emphasized, as well as the implementation of a public awareness campaign on the demographic issue.
The speakers' statements highlighted the need for a combination of policies that will address demographic developments, social and spatial inequalities, as well as the conditions that affect citizens' decisions to start a family.