kathimerini.gr
Greece strengthens rule of law, targets top-20 global ranking by 2030
Greece's government details significant rule-of-law improvements, including macroeconomic stabilization, investment-grade recovery, and reduced European Commission recommendations, achieved through judicial reforms, anti-corruption measures, and investments totaling nearly €700 million, aiming for top-20 global ranking by 2030.
- What concrete steps has Greece taken to improve its rule of law, and what are the immediate measurable results?
- Greece has made significant strides in strengthening its rule of law, achieving macroeconomic stability, exiting enhanced surveillance, and regaining investment grade. These improvements are reflected in reduced European Commission recommendations and Greece's return to the Economist's list of full democracies after a 15-year absence.
- How did Greece's economic crisis contribute to the weaknesses in its rule of law, and what systemic changes are being made to address these?
- The improvements in Greece's rule of law are attributed to specific measures such as a new framework for selecting top judiciary leadership, investments in modernizing court systems (almost €700 million), and decriminalizing simple defamation for journalists. These actions aim to reduce the time for justice delivery and foster a climate of trust.
- What are the long-term goals for Greece's rule of law reforms, and what challenges remain in achieving a lasting culture of accountability and transparency?
- Future steps include constitutional amendments to further depoliticize judicial appointments, enhance public employee evaluation, and implement digital registers for better tracking of financial crimes. The goal is to reach among the top 20 countries internationally in transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption efforts by 2030, overcoming a culture of lawlessness that has plagued post-junta Greece.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed positively, showcasing the government's achievements in strengthening the rule of law and combating corruption. The emphasis is on progress and positive changes. Headlines or introductory paragraphs would likely highlight successes and improvements. This framing could lead to a skewed perception of the overall situation.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and self-congratulatory, employing terms like "remarkable work," "systematic improvement," and "new climate of trust." While reporting achievements is appropriate, the consistent positive framing lacks neutrality. For example, "remarkable work" could be replaced with a more neutral description of the actions and their outcomes. The phrase "soft or hard delinquency" could also be replaced with "minor or major offenses".
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the government's actions and improvements, potentially omitting critical perspectives or counterarguments from opposition parties or civil society groups regarding the effectiveness of the reforms. There is no mention of specific challenges or criticisms of the implemented measures. The piece might benefit from including counterpoints to maintain objectivity.
False Dichotomy
The text presents a somewhat simplistic eitheor framing of the situation, contrasting a past era of 'anomie' with the current government's efforts. It doesn't fully explore the complexities and nuances of the challenges faced, nor does it acknowledge that the 'new culture of the rule of law' might be a gradual process with setbacks.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights Greece's efforts to strengthen its rule of law, including judicial independence, efficiency, and transparency. These actions directly contribute to SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.