Costing election promises remains a challenge in Greece

Greece is officially in the final year of the current government's term, effectively marking the start of an election campaign. While August typically brings a lull, the political maneuvering will intensify in September, with the Thessaloniki International Fair serving as a crucial platform for party leaders.

This year's fair holds particular significance as it will host major pre-election economic announcements. However, this presents a potential pitfall: the risk of an escalating cycle of unrealistic promises. The economic crisis of the past decade and the memory of past fiscal missteps, like Alexis Tsipras's "Thessaloniki program," served as a deterrent against boundless pledges. The chaotic aftermath of those times acted as a cautionary tale against unchecked promises.

Despite past lessons, the necessity of costed proposals and accountability has yet to be fully embraced. Political parties may find it inconvenient to align their policies with the nation's economic realities and capabilities, as this would prevent them from making easy promises to voters. Similarly, voters might be discouraged by the prospect of having to critically evaluate and compare complex economic plans, preferring simpler, magical solutions.

Costing political promises is essential for promoting accountability and transparency. It helps curb populist rhetoric and the allure of easy fixes, compelling citizens to engage in thoughtful decision-making. This process encourages voters to scrutinize, compare, and ultimately make more informed choices, moving beyond the temptation of simplistic solutions.