Greece's New Democracy: Power, Scandals, and Democratic Challenges

Since 2019, New Democracy (ND) has dominated Greek politics under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, securing back-to-back electoral victories. Yet, its tenure has been marred by controversies—from corruption and surveillance scandals to harsh migration policies. As Greece navigates economic recovery and democratic backsliding, ND's leadership faces growing scrutiny both domestically and internationally.

The Rise and Electoral Dominance of New Democracy

New Democracy, Greece's center-right party, has maintained a firm grip on power since 2019. Founded in 1974 after the fall of the military junta, ND has positioned itself as a champion of economic recovery, EU integration, and migration control. Under Mitsotakis, the party won decisive majorities in both the 2019 and 2023 elections, securing 158 out of 300 seats in parliament.

• 2019 Election: ND won 39.85% of the vote, translating to 158 seats.


• 2023 Snap Election: The party increased its share to 40.56%, retaining its majority.


• 2024 EU Elections: While ND remained the leading party, it saw a decline in both votes and seats.

Mitsotakis's leadership promised a "return to normalcy" after the left-wing Syriza government, focusing on economic growth through tourism and EU funds. However, his administration has faced criticism for democratic erosion, including press freedom restrictions and state surveillance.

Controversial Policies and International Backlash

Migration and Asylum Reforms

In July 2025, ND introduced a controversial three-month asylum suspension for North African migrants. The new law mandates that rejected asylum seekers choose between voluntary deportation or facing 2-5 years in jail, along with €10,000 fines for illegal entry or stay. This policy has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).

"Greece's systematic pushbacks of migrants violate international law and human rights standards." — ECHR Ruling, January 2025

EU Subsidies Scandal and Corruption Allegations

In June 2025, the European Commission fined Greece a record amount for the misuse of agricultural funds by OPEKEPE, a state agency. The scandal led to the resignation of two former ministers and the dissolution of the agency. A parliamentary probe was launched, highlighting ongoing concerns about corruption within ND's ranks.

Other notable scandals include:

• Novartis Corruption Case: Allegations of bribery involving high-ranking officials.


• 2022 Wiretapping Scandal: Use of Predator spyware to surveil journalists and political opponents.


• Tempi Train Crash Cover-Up: Accusations of government attempts to obscure responsibility.

Democratic Backsliding and Press Freedom Concerns

Greece's democratic health has declined under ND's leadership. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Greece ranks last in the EU for press freedom. Journalists face state surveillance, SLAPP lawsuits, and smear campaigns. The 2021 murder of journalist Giorgos Karaivaz remains unsolved, raising concerns about impunity.

Key indicators of democratic backsliding include:

• Rule of Law Issues: Persistent challenges in judicial independence and corruption.


• Media Interference: Government influence over media outlets and harassment of journalists.


• Migrant Abuses: Reports of pushbacks and poor conditions in detention centers.

Economic Recovery Amid Persistent Challenges

Despite political controversies, Greece has seen economic growth under ND. Tourism and EU funds have driven recovery, but challenges remain:

• Highest EU Debt: Greece's debt-to-GDP ratio remains a concern.


• Low Wages and Cost-of-Living Crisis: Many citizens struggle with rising prices.


• Brain Drain: Skilled workers continue to emigrate for better opportunities.

While ND has stabilized Greece's economy, critics argue that economic inequality and democratic freedoms must be addressed to ensure long-term prosperity.

Civil Society Under Pressure

Human rights defenders and migrant advocates face increasing harassment. The National Human Rights Commission has warned of a climate of fear, with cases like Panayote Dimitras highlighting the risks faced by activists. International organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have condemned Greece's treatment of migrants and restrictions on civil liberties.

As ND continues to govern, the balance between political stability and democratic integrity remains a critical challenge for Greece.

Public Trust and Government Performance: A Mixed Picture

Greece's government under New Democracy has seen fluctuating levels of public trust. According to the OECD, only 32% of Greeks report high or moderately high trust in their government, compared to the OECD average of 39%. This skepticism extends to administrative services, where satisfaction stands at 54%, well below the OECD average of 66%.

Despite these challenges, ND has maintained its position as Greece's "default" governing party. The party's ability to secure electoral victories—even amid scandals—highlights its political resilience. However, this dominance has not translated into universal approval, as evidenced by declining trust metrics and persistent protests.

Key Factors Influencing Public Perception

• Economic Management: While Greece has seen post-crisis growth, many citizens remain dissatisfied with wage stagnation and rising living costs.


• Corruption Allegations: High-profile scandals, such as the OPEKEPE subsidies misuse and Novartis bribery case, have eroded confidence in government transparency.


• Migration Policies: The controversial asylum suspension and reports of migrant pushbacks have drawn international condemnation, further polarizing public opinion.

The Role of the European Union in Greece's Political Landscape

Greece's relationship with the European Union has been both a source of support and scrutiny. The EU has provided critical financial aid, helping Greece recover from its debt crisis. However, Brussels has also been a vocal critic of ND's policies, particularly regarding migration and rule of law.

EU Funding and Economic Recovery

The influx of EU funds has been instrumental in Greece's economic rebound. These funds have supported infrastructure projects, tourism development, and social programs. Yet, the misuse of agricultural subsidies—as seen in the OPEKEPE scandal—has raised concerns about Greece's ability to manage EU resources effectively.

EU Criticism and Legal Challenges

The European Commission and European Parliament have repeatedly criticized Greece for:

• Migrant Pushbacks: The ECHR ruling in January 2025 condemned Greece's "systematic pushbacks" as a violation of human rights.


• Surveillance and Press Freedom: The use of Predator spyware to target journalists has drawn condemnation from EU institutions.


• Corruption and Impunity: The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has investigated multiple cases involving Greek officials, leading to resignations and legal proceedings.

"The systematic pushbacks of migrants at Greece's borders are a clear violation of EU and international law." — European Parliament Resolution, 2025

Opposition Fragmentation and the Future of Greek Politics

One of the key factors behind ND's continued dominance is the fragmentation of the left opposition. Greece's political landscape has seen a weakening of traditional left-wing parties, leaving ND with little organized resistance. This dynamic has allowed the party to maintain stability despite scandals and public dissatisfaction.

Challenges Facing the Opposition

• Lack of Unity: The left remains divided, with multiple parties competing for the same voter base.


• Media Influence: ND's alleged control over media narratives has made it difficult for opposition voices to gain traction.


• Public Fatigue: After years of economic crisis and political instability, many Greeks prioritize stability over ideological change.

Potential Shifts in the Political Landscape

Despite ND's current strength, several factors could reshape Greece's political future:

• Youth Engagement: Younger voters, increasingly disillusioned with traditional politics, may drive demand for new leadership.


• Economic Pressures: If living standards fail to improve, public frustration could fuel support for alternative parties.


• EU Pressure: Continued criticism from Brussels may force ND to reconsider its policies, particularly on migration and rule of law.

Civil Society and Human Rights: A Battle for Accountability

Greece's civil society has become a critical voice in holding the government accountable. Organizations like Human Rights Watch and the Greek National Commission for Human Rights have documented abuses, from migrant pushbacks to the harassment of activists.

Harassment of Human Rights Defenders

Cases like that of Panayote Dimitras, a prominent human rights activist, highlight the risks faced by those who challenge government policies. Dimitras and others have reported legal harassment, surveillance, and smear campaigns aimed at silencing dissent.

International Condemnation and Domestic Resistance

The European Court of Human Rights and UN bodies have repeatedly criticized Greece's treatment of migrants and restrictions on civil liberties. Domestically, protests and legal challenges have intensified, with citizens and NGOs demanding greater transparency and respect for human rights.

"The climate of fear created by state surveillance and legal harassment threatens the very foundations of Greek democracy." — Greek National Commission for Human Rights, 2025

Looking Ahead: Can New Democracy Sustain Its Grip on Power?

As Greece moves forward, New Democracy faces a delicate balancing act. The party must address economic inequality, democratic backsliding, and international criticism while maintaining its electoral base. The coming years will test whether ND can adapt to these challenges or if Greece's political landscape is due for a shift.

Key questions for the future include:

• Will ND's economic policies deliver tangible improvements in living standards?


• Can the party restore trust in government institutions amid ongoing scandals?


• How will Greece navigate its relationship with the EU, particularly on migration and rule of law?

For now, ND remains in control, but the pressures of governance, public expectation, and international scrutiny are mounting. The next chapter of Greek politics will depend on how these challenges are met.

The Path Forward: Reforms and Challenges for Greece

As New Democracy continues to govern, Greece stands at a crossroads. The country must address pressing issues such as economic inequality, democratic backsliding, and migration policies while maintaining stability. The path forward requires a delicate balance between reform and political survival.

Economic Reforms: Beyond Recovery to Sustainability

Greece's economic recovery has been noteworthy, but sustainability remains a concern. The government must focus on:

• Debt Management: Reducing Greece's highest-in-EU debt to ensure long-term fiscal health.


• Wage Growth: Addressing stagnant wages and the cost-of-living crisis to improve citizen well-being.


• Brain Gain Initiatives: Encouraging skilled workers to return and reversing the brain drain trend.

Without these reforms, Greece risks falling back into economic instability, which could undermine ND's political dominance.

Strengthening Democratic Institutions

To counter accusations of democratic backsliding, Greece must take concrete steps to:

• Protect Press Freedom: End surveillance of journalists and ensure investigations into attacks, such as the murder of Giorgos Karaivaz.


• Enhance Judicial Independence: Address corruption and ensure accountability for high-profile scandals.


• Safeguard Civil Liberties: Stop the harassment of human rights defenders and ensure fair treatment of migrants.

"A democracy is only as strong as its institutions. Greece must act now to restore trust in its governance." — Freedom House Report, 2025

Migration Policies: Human Rights vs. National Security

Greece's migration policies remain one of the most contentious issues under ND's leadership. The government's approach has drawn international condemnation, particularly for:

• Asylum Suspensions: The three-month suspension for North African migrants has been widely criticized.


• Pushbacks and Detention Conditions: Reports of illegal pushbacks and poor conditions in detention centers.


• Legal Consequences for Migrants: Fines and jail time for rejected asylum seekers raise humanitarian concerns.

A Balanced Approach to Migration

Greece must find a balance between national security and human rights. Potential solutions include:

• EU Collaboration: Working with the EU to create fair and humane asylum processes.


• Transparency in Border Policies: Ending illegal pushbacks and ensuring accountability.


• Integration Programs: Supporting migrants who qualify for asylum with language and job training.

The Role of the European Union in Shaping Greece's Future

The European Union plays a dual role in Greece's trajectory—providing financial support while demanding reforms. Key areas of EU influence include:

• Financial Aid and Oversight: Ensuring EU funds are used transparently and effectively.


• Rule of Law Monitoring: Holding Greece accountable for democratic standards and human rights.


• Migration Policy Coordination: Aligning Greece's policies with EU-wide humanitarian standards.

The EU's pressure could either push Greece toward necessary reforms or deepen political tensions if perceived as overreach.

Public Sentiment and the Future of Greek Politics

Public opinion in Greece is divided. While ND maintains a strong electoral base, dissatisfaction is growing over:

• Economic Hardship: Many Greeks struggle with low wages and high living costs.


• Corruption and Scandals: Ongoing controversies erode trust in government.


• Migration Policies: Human rights concerns clash with national security priorities.

Potential Shifts in Political Power

Several factors could reshape Greece's political landscape:

• Rise of New Political Movements: Younger voters may demand fresh leadership.


• Opposition Consolidation: If left-wing parties unite, they could challenge ND's dominance.


• EU and International Pressure: Continued criticism may force policy changes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways and the Road Ahead

Greece under New Democracy has seen both progress and setbacks. The government's economic recovery efforts are commendable, but democratic backsliding, corruption scandals, and controversial migration policies threaten long-term stability. As Greece moves forward, several key takeaways emerge:

• Economic Reforms Are Essential: Sustainability requires addressing debt, wages, and brain drain.


• Democratic Institutions Must Be Strengthened: Press freedom, judicial independence, and civil liberties need protection.


• Migration Policies Need Reform: A humane, EU-aligned approach is necessary.


• Public Trust Must Be Restored: Transparency and accountability are critical.

The road ahead for Greece is challenging but not insurmountable. With the right reforms, ND can secure its legacy as a government that not only stabilized the economy but also strengthened democracy. However, failure to address these issues could lead to political upheaval and a loss of public confidence. The choices made today will shape Greece's future for generations to come.

"Greece stands at a pivotal moment. The decisions of today will determine whether it emerges as a stronger democracy or continues down a path of erosion." — International IDEA, 2025