In her speech at the 1st Conference on Population Dynamics and on Economic Prosperity, noting that “the creation of the International Center is an important step to capture data, share best practices and make critical future decisions as we face new challenges that will shape our future. Strengthening the region plays a primary role in policy-making for our Government.”

Sofia Zaharaki, during her speech at the conference organized by the OECD’s Crete Center for Populations, the Economic Forum of Delphi and the Municipality of Chania with the support of the Region of Crete, referred primarily to the National Action Plan which, as she emphasized “it prioritizes the needs of Greece’s aging population as we strive to ensure fiscal sustainability and accessible long-term care. We are developing a unified strategy for long-term care reform, supported by the Recovery and Resilience Fund. Today,” he emphasized, “people in their 60s are still young – the idea of ​​retiring from life and work is outdated. They are productive, dynamic and waiting for incentives to participate with the younger generation. Together with the European Commission, we develop programs for digital training, reintegration into the workforce and participation in voluntary activities. Our goal is to maintain the active participation of senior citizens in a rapidly changing society. In line with this commitment, the Government has legislated provisions to allow retirees to rejoin the workforce without losing benefits. Already, more than 192,000 retirees have returned to contribute to our economy.”

On the issue of low fertility, the Minister noted that in recent years there has been a “delay” of young people in having children, as they prioritize studies and careers. This creates an important demographic problem that YKOISO is working to address with incentives and targeted actions.

Regarding youth employment, Sofia Zaharaki pointed out that “from 2019 until today, 500,000 new jobs have been created, which translates into an increase in youth employment by 28.9%. We are trying to limit the brain-drain and give incentives to young men and women to return to the country. To this end, we reduce barriers through tax incentives, especially for people relocating to Greece. In particular, our “First Job Credit” program offers subsidies of up to 1,200 euros for young people with no previous experience, and Rebrain Greece connects specialized professionals with specialized employment opportunities,” said the Minister.

The Minister, Sofia Zaharaki, also referred to the programs promoted by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family for housing, the budget of which will reach 5 billion euros by 2027, but also to the importance that is now given to properly informing young people about the options they have so that they feel safe and see that there is perspective both in their work and that there is the background and support from the state in their decision to create a family.