Greek labor market to 2035: Demographics, green shift and digital transformation shape employment

Dr Ilias Livanos of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) says employment in Greece is expected to remain largely stagnant through 2035, with about nine out of ten positions representing replacement demand. The “Great Retirement” in 2035, when the baby‑boom generation (born 1946‑1964) exits the workforce, will drive a sharp rise in jobs caring for the elderly – a 10 % increase in health‑ and social‑care roles and a 44 % surge in personal‑care positions, together accounting for roughly 12.5 % of replacement demand. Advisory and protective services for retirees are also projected to grow, while new teaching roles may cover 6 % of the demand; health‑assistant jobs are expected to decline, requiring retraining.

The green transition under the EU Green Deal will shift labor from traditional “brown” sectors to sustainable fields. Demand for electricians, electronic technicians and wind‑farm workers could rise by about 27 %, while mining remains static and electricity, gas and HVAC sectors may expand by 33 %. Construction jobs may grow 12 %, and scientists and engineers a modest amount. Agriculture will need skilled, digitally‑savvy farmers to replace an aging workforce.

Digital transformation will boost the IT and telecom sector by roughly 13 % overall, with a 32 % rise in new positions, and sales jobs may increase by 8.5 % despite AI adoption. The “experience economy” is predicted to add 34 % more jobs in arts and entertainment and 35 % in legal, social and related services.