Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis delivered a resolute message during today’s cabinet meeting, declaring: “In turbulent times, the strength of our values alone is not enough. We also need the value of our strength.”
He stressed the urgent need to bolster Greece across multiple fronts, stating that “strengthening the homeland in defense, diplomacy, economy, and society is critical.” In an era of uncertainty, he added, “political stability is a national necessity.”
A key highlight was his proposal to expand voting rights for Greeks abroad through postal voting in national elections, coupled with the creation of a special three-seat constituency dedicated to the diaspora. Under this plan, the total number of nationwide parliamentary seats would revert to 12, while the electoral threshold remains at 3%. Mitsotakis described the initiative as an “obvious national choice beyond and above party lines,” expressing optimism that it could secure broad cross-party support. He announced that consultations would begin immediately.
Turning to domestic reforms, the Prime Minister referenced the upcoming Hatzidakis bill, affirming that the battle against the “deep state,” bureaucracy, and entrenched systemic issues continues through a series of “small and larger reforms that save time, money, and energy.”
The draft legislation addresses approximately 15 citizen-reported issues, drawing from Ombudsman findings and input from MPs and ministries. Key measures include abolishing numerous certificates and replacing them with simple citizens’ declarations—especially where the state already holds the relevant data, such as high school diplomas or military service records.
Notably, the bill eliminates outdated “Ottoman-era decrees” that have allowed the state to claim ownership over areas like parts of Karditsa or Saronida. It establishes clear criteria for long-term possession, resolving cases where the state has effectively relinquished claims after decades of unchallenged use. Government sources cited striking examples, including potential state claims over urban districts like Evosmos in Thessaloniki, or lands granted to refugees during the Venizelos era without proper title deeds—leaving many residents without formal ownership.
These steps underscore the government’s commitment to modernization, inclusivity for the diaspora, and ongoing efforts to streamline bureaucracy for the benefit of citizens.