kathimerini.gr
Greece Sees Positive Migration Shift in 2023
Greece's Deputy Prime Minister announced that in 2023, for the first time since 2008, more Greek citizens returned (47,200) than left (32,800), attributed to government initiatives including tax incentives and job creation, reflecting an improving economic climate and a reversal of the negative migration trend.
- What specific economic and policy factors contributed to Greece's positive migration balance in 2023, marking a significant shift from the previous negative trend?
- In 2023, Greece saw a positive migration balance for the first time since 2008, with 47,200 citizens returning versus 32,800 leaving. This shift is attributed to government initiatives like tax incentives and job creation efforts, indicating an improving economic climate.
- How have government initiatives, such as wage increases and job creation, impacted the perception of Greece among its emigrants, and what role do these factors play in the observed migration shift?
- The reversal of Greece's negative migration trend is linked to a 35% increase in minimum wage and a 28% rise in average wages since 2019, exceeding cumulative inflation of 20%. Furthermore, over half a million new jobs were created in the last 5.5 years, contributing to a more positive perception of the country.
- What systemic challenges remain in attracting highly-skilled workers and entrepreneurs back to Greece, and how might addressing these challenges further enhance the country's attractiveness as a destination for returning emigrants?
- Greece's improved economic indicators, including increased R&D spending (up 44.2% from 2019 to 2023) and a higher number of researchers (up 39.9%), suggest a sustained effort to attract skilled workers and boost innovation. Continued focus on addressing bureaucratic inefficiencies and promoting meritocracy will further solidify this positive trend.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the return of Greeks as a success story primarily attributable to government policies. The headline (if one existed) likely emphasized the positive net migration figures. The introductory paragraphs highlight the positive net migration and the government's role in achieving it. This selective emphasis might overshadow other factors influencing migration decisions and potentially overstates the government's impact.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive and celebratory in tone. Phrases such as "success story," "opportunities," and "positive net migration" contribute to a biased and optimistic presentation. More neutral language such as "net migration shift," "economic improvements," and "government initiatives" would offer a more balanced perspective.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on positive economic indicators and government initiatives to attract returning Greeks. However, it omits potential counterarguments or perspectives from those who have chosen to remain abroad or those who have returned and experienced challenges. The lack of discussion on obstacles faced by returning migrants (e.g., bureaucratic hurdles, difficulties integrating back into the workforce) limits the completeness of the picture. While space constraints may be a factor, including diverse viewpoints would strengthen the analysis.
False Dichotomy
The presentation creates a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between "Greece during the crisis" and a supposedly improved present. The claim that things are "different" and that there are "opportunities" overlooks the persistent socioeconomic complexities and inequalities that may continue to deter some from returning. While progress is noted, a more nuanced portrayal of the current situation is warranted.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a positive shift in Greece's employment landscape, with over half a million new jobs created since 2019, a 35% increase in minimum wage, and a 28% rise in average wages. These improvements attract Greek citizens back to the country and contribute to economic growth. The government initiatives to support research, innovation, and startups further stimulate economic activity and job creation.