SerbiaThe Official Gazette of Greece has published new salary regulations for the highest-ranking clergy of the Greek Orthodox Church, including metropolitans and bishops, linking their salaries to those of the head of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports. The archbishop of Athens and all Greece, active metropolitans, and titular metropolitans will receive 90% of the monthly gross salary of the ministry’s general secretary, which amounts to €4,671.90. Titular and assistant bishops will receive 70% of the metropolitans' salary, or €3,270.33 per month. Ordinary parish priests are excluded from this change, sparking criticism both within the church and in political circles. Additionally, the new regulation eliminates other financial benefits previously provided to clergy, such as travel expenses or participation allowances. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the changes, stating they align with the church’s demands and reflect the administrative role of high-ranking clergy, while critics argue the increase comes at a time of increased pressure on households and highlights inequality in compensation between high-ranking clergy and ordinary priests.
Tendenz-Einschätzung (Mitte): The article presents the salary changes for high-ranking clergy in a neutral manner, citing official sources and including perspectives from both supporters and critics. It does not exhibit overtly biased language or selective sourcing.
