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Greeks promised pay hikes as elections loom but affordability crunch triggers large protests
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced extensive tax breaks and pay raises ahead of next year's general election, aiming to provide relief from high taxes and boost incomes as the economy stabilizes.
- Over 25,000 people participated in union-led protests in Thessaloniki, demonstrating against the high cost of living and low wages, with farmers driving tractors into the city center.
- Despite Greece achieving a 2.1% economic growth and a budget surplus last year, workers have the lowest purchasing power in the EU, prompting calls for improved affordability.
- The government’s support package, valued at over 2 billion euros, targets tax relief for self-employed professionals, farmers, and rural residents, alongside salary and benefit increases for retirees and public sector employees.
- The announcement coincided with a tragic fighter jet crash near Athens that killed two air force pilots, overshadowing the prime minister’s speech.
