Asignificant number of Greeks who left the country for work opportunities abroad have now returned, signaling a potential reversal of the so-called brain drain, according to Labor and Social Security Minister Niki Kerameus. Speaking to MEGA Channel on Friday, May 23, Kerameus highlighted that approximately two in three Greeks who emigrated in the past decade have come back.
Referring to Eurostat data, she noted that around 680,000 Greeks had left the country over the last ten years, while 420,000 have since returned.
Kerameus also spotlighted the ongoing Career Days organized by the Public Employment Service (DYPA) at the Peristeri Exhibition Centre on May 23 and 24. She stressed the initiative’s impact, stating that more than 9,000 people have secured employment through similar events in the past.
Turning to the issue of wages, the minister pointed out that Greece’s minimum wage has increased by 35%. She emphasized that while many foreign countries are perceived as offering higher salaries, the cost of living in those places often offsets the benefit.
She cited Athens as having a notably lower cost of living than London and pointed to the government’s tax incentives for returnees, noting that these factors help balance—or even improve—individuals’ financial situations upon returning.
Kerameus also drew attention to a recent sectoral labor agreement in the tourism industry, under which the minimum salary for the lowest category of workers has been set at 950 euros— higher than the national legal minimum wage.
She further noted that unemployment has dropped to 9% and announced the launch of a new platform, Job Match, aimed at connecting job seekers with positions in the tourism sector.
Finally, the minister shared updates on early childhood care initiatives, announcing the opening of applications for free nursery school enrolments for the 2025–2026 academic year, while also announcing the inauguration a new model nursery in the municipality of Chaidari (Haidari), serving as the standard for future facilities.
Source: tovima.com
