Greece implements measures to combat youth brain drain

The Greek government is launching initiatives to reverse the exodus of highly qualified young professionals, aiming to transform the current ‘brain drain’ into a ‘brain regain’. Deputy Labor Minister Anna Efthymiou stated that the government seeks to provide high-quality jobs, better income, and professional development opportunities to encourage citizens to stay or return.

Key policy measures include fostering substantial wage increases through collective bargaining and implementing tax reforms. Since 2019, social security contributions have been reduced by 5.4 percentage points, with a further reduction of 0.5 percentage points planned for April 2027. Additionally, the government is focusing on improved housing policies and targeted outreach programs to connect with Greeks living abroad.