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In recent days, Kostas Hatzidakis, Deputy Prime Minister and a prominent figure within Greece’s ruling New Democracy party, delivered a significant speech during an event titled “Challenges and Opportunities for Greece in 2030.” The gathering was organized by the Konstantinos Karamanlis Institute of Democracy, the Association of Senior Members of New Democracy, and the Local Committee of New Democracy in Thessaloniki. During his address, Hatzidakis emphasized the party's dual commitment to stability and national renewal, framing this as a continuation of the legacy set by Konstantinos Karamanlis in 1974. He argued that New Democracy has successfully balanced these two principles while addressing contemporary challenges facing Greek society.

Hatzidakis highlighted how the current government under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has effectively promoted stability and security, contrasting this with the opposition parties, which he claimed lack coherent strategies for change. He criticized some opposition groups for promoting divisive rhetoric, including conspiracy theories and extremist ideologies, which he said fail to offer viable solutions to young Greeks seeking opportunities. According to him, such approaches reflect personal egos rather than constructive political engagement and echo the worst aspects of modern Greek history.

The Deputy Prime Minister also used a football analogy to illustrate the contrast between New Democracy and its rivals. He described the ruling party as a well-organized team with clear leadership and structure, while other parties struggle to assemble even basic teams or present credible alternatives. This metaphor underscored his belief that New Democracy is uniquely positioned to lead Greece forward with responsibility and patriotism.

Hatzidakis outlined four main pillars of New Democracy’s social program for the coming years, focusing on family support, housing issues, equal opportunities, and regional development. On the issue of family support, he stressed the importance of the family unit as the foundation of society and proposed measures to help new couples balance their professional lives with raising children. These would include access to childcare facilities and full-time schools that genuinely provide comprehensive education.

Regarding housing, Hatzidakis noted that 30 percent of Greeks face housing insecurity due to rising costs. In response, he announced plans for a large-scale social housing initiative aimed at increasing supply and controlling prices. He mentioned that over 44 specific actions have already been implemented regarding housing but emphasized the need for an overall upgrade of policy in this area.

For equal opportunities, he advocated for ensuring that all children, regardless of where they live—whether in remote villages or urban centers—have access to the same educational and developmental resources. This vision aligns with broader goals of social justice and fairness, aiming to reduce disparities across regions.

On regional development, Hatzidakis placed particular emphasis on northern Greece, especially Macedonia and Thrace, stating that these areas should be high priorities for investment and growth. He pointed to ongoing projects in Thessaloniki and other parts of the region, highlighting efforts to leverage available incentives and tools to stimulate economic activity.

In addition to outlining future policies, Hatzidakis reflected on the achievements of the current administration, acknowledging both successes and areas needing improvement. He expressed a commitment to moving forward with integrity, seriousness, and genuine patriotism, rejecting populist tactics and pseudoscientific narratives that undermine national unity and progress.

His remarks were followed by comments from Theodoros Pelagidis, a professor at the University of Piraeus and former deputy governor of the Bank of Greece. Pelagidis characterized the current world as uncertain, unstable, dangerous, volatile, and dystopian, warning that democracy itself appears to be struggling amid these conditions. His perspective added depth to the discussion, emphasizing the complex geopolitical landscape in which Greece operates today.

Overall, Hatzidakis’s speech reinforced New Democracy’s position as the party best equipped to navigate Greece’s challenges while maintaining stability and pursuing meaningful reform. His message resonated with themes of national pride, responsible governance, and a forward-looking vision for the country’s future. As Greece prepares for upcoming elections, these statements will likely play a crucial role in shaping public perception and political discourse.