Greece Births Plunge 42% in Two Years, Six Regions See Over 50% Decline

A new study by the Institute of Demographic Research and Studies (IDEM) reports that births in Greece have fallen sharply over the past 15 years, with the decline accelerating in the 2024-2025 period. According to the data, annual births dropped from 117,000 in 2009 to 67,000 in 2024, a reduction of roughly 42% over two years and more than 40% over the full period. The decline is not evenly distributed: six regional units — Thesprotia, Grevena, Fthiotida, Kozani, Evrytania and Florina — recorded decreases exceeding 50%, while another ten regions saw declines between 45% and 50%. The study notes that the downward trend began in the 1970s but has recently accelerated to what researchers describe as uncontrolled rates. The findings have raised concerns about Greece's demographic future and the sustainability of its workforce and social systems.

Global Impact

Demographically, Greece joins a growing list of European countries facing severe population decline, which could intensify debates over immigration policy and EU cohesion funds. Economically, a shrinking workforce may reduce Greece's potential GDP growth and increase pressure on public finances, potentially affecting its creditworthiness over the long term.