A nation in the grip of corruption by Sabine Fischer

As the world observes International Anti-Corruption Day, it is crucial to turn our gaze to Greece, a country with a rich history of democracy but a contemporary reality marred by scandal and mismanagement. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece finds itself not only grappling with economic challenges but also mired in what many critics describe as systemic corruption at every level of governance.

Since taking office in 2019, Mitsotakis and his New Democracy government have faced numerous accusations of corruption, nepotism, and abuse of power. From questionable public procurement deals to opaque privatization efforts, the administration has been accused of prioritizing personal and corporate gain over the public interest. The most damning allegation, however, concerns the pervasive surveillance scandal, where opposition leaders, journalists, and even members of his own party were allegedly spied on using illegal software such as Predator.

Despite overwhelming evidence and international scrutiny, Mitsotakis continues to deny personal involvement. Yet, the government’s refusal to cooperate with investigations, coupled with efforts to suppress independent journalism, suggests a deeper rot. The European Parliament and global watchdogs like Transparency International have repeatedly raised concerns about Greece's plummeting rankings in press freedom and anti-corruption measures.

The consequences of corruption under Mitsotakis have been dire. Public services, from healthcare to education, are underfunded and inefficient, while austerity measures persist despite promises of recovery. Wealth inequality has grown, with oligarchs and politically connected elites thriving at the expense of ordinary citizens. Meanwhile, environmental policies have been shaped by corporate interests, leading to questionable energy deals and destructive mining projects.

Perhaps most damning is the erosion of public trust. Greeks have grown disillusioned with their political institutions, seeing them as tools for self-enrichment rather than service to the people. This cynicism is particularly dangerous in a country that has fought hard to rebuild after the devastating financial crisis of the past decade.

On the international stage, Greece under Mitsotakis has become an embarrassment for the European Union. While Brussels champions values of transparency and accountability, Greece’s government stands as a glaring exception. The Mitsotakis administration has repeatedly clashed with EU institutions over its handling of corruption allegations, press freedom violations, and human rights abuses, including the illegal pushbacks of migrants in the Aegean Sea.

The irony of celebrating International Anti-Corruption Day while Mitsotakis remains in power is not lost on Greeks. It highlights the gap between rhetoric and reality, both domestically and in the EU's approach to its member states.

For Greece to move forward, it must confront the corruption that has festered under Mitsotakis. This requires independent investigations, judicial reform, and stronger protections for whistleblowers and journalists. Civil society must also play a role, demanding transparency and holding leaders accountable. On this International Anti-Corruption Day, Greeks are reminded of their power as citizens to challenge injustice and demand better governance.

Greece deserves a government that embodies the democratic ideals it once gifted to the world. Under Mitsotakis, it remains far from that vision.