Dec 22 2025
Sources: Documento, ELSTAT
As Greece rings in the New Year, the latest data from ELSTAT reveals a troubling trend that raises questions about the future of the Hellenes. In 2025, the country witnessed a natural population decrease, with deaths outnumbering births by a staggering margin. According to the figures, there were 125,873 deaths against only 68,309 births, leading to a decline of 57,564 people. This marks a decrease of 0.03%, bringing the population down to 10,372,335 as of January 1, 2025.
The demographics tell a stark story: only 12.8% of the population is aged 0-14, while a significant 63.5% falls within the 15-64 age group, and a concerning 23.7% are aged 65 and over. The aging index, which measures the ratio of those 65 and older to those 0-14, stands at a striking 185.4. This suggests that the population is not just aging but is also facing a potential future where the younger generations are increasingly outnumbered.
On a more positive note, Greece's net migration balance was favorable, as it saw an influx of 54,135 people in 2024, with 132,149 arriving while 78,014 departed. This influx, while helping to mitigate the natural decrease, raises critical questions about long-term sustainability. In 2023, net migration was revised to 29,816, reflecting ongoing changes in the migratory patterns that include those seeking refuge under international or temporary protection.
As the balance between births and deaths continues to tilt, one can't help but wonder: is this pattern of natural decrease merely a momentary trend, or could it signal a prelude to a more serious demographic crisis? With an aging population and a declining birth rate, Greece stands at a crossroads that could shape its future for generations to come.
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