The Greek government has launched a demographic development program to boost population growth and economic activity in the Evros region by offering financial incentives for permanent relocation.
The measure, initially announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in October, was formally submitted to Parliament on Thursday as part of a broader legislative package.
Social Cohesion and Family Minister Sofia Zacharaki introduced the regulation, which provides up to €10,000 in financial aid to households moving to the municipalities of Soufli, Orestiada, and Didymoteicho in northern and central Evros.
The initiative aims to counter population decline and foster economic development, with a total budget of €8 million.
Under the plan, households relocating to settlements with fewer than 500 residents, based on the latest census, will receive the full €10,000 grant.
Those settling in larger communities will be eligible for €6,000. An additional €1,000 per minor child will be provided, with a maximum grant limit of €10,000 per family.
The financial assistance will be distributed in two equal installments.
The first payment will be issued upon application approval, while the second will be granted after one year of residence in the designated municipality.
The regulation is part of a broader demographic and economic strategy included in a legislative bill expected to pass later on Thursday.
Additional provisions in the bill include gender representation requirements for corporate boards, funding for accessibility infrastructure for people with disabilities, continuation of the Personal Assistant Program, establishment of the "Athina" childcare program, and the introduction of prepaid cards for social benefits.
The demographic initiative highlights the government's commitment to revitalizing remote and economically vulnerable areas.
If approved, it will be a crucial tool for stabilizing and strengthening communities in northern Greece.