Government initiatives aim to support families in Greece and Cyprus

In Greece, Member of Parliament Giorgos Kotzos has submitted a parliamentary report to Vice President Kostis Hatzidakis seeking enhanced support for large families. The proposal, developed in consultation with the Karditsa Large Family Association and the Supreme Confederation of Large Families of Greece (ASPE), includes several key measures: a fairer tax treatment regarding ENFIA based on housing needs, a 16% quota for teacher recruitment for large families, the recognition of maternity time as pensionable service, and a 2% income tax reduction for each child in families with annual incomes exceeding 30,000 euros.

In Cyprus, President Nikos Christodoulides outlined government policies designed to address demographic challenges by supporting young people and families. The Cypriot administration is implementing housing plans valued at 300 million euros to assist young citizens in home ownership. Financial support measures include increased childbirth grants, ranging from 1,000 euros for the first child to 2,000 euros for subsequent children, and a 5% to 10% increase in child benefits. Additionally, income criteria for child benefits and student grants have been removed for families with five or more children. Maternity leave has also been extended from 18 to 22 weeks.