Greece submits new Code of Local Government to Parliament

Greece's Parliament has received the new Code of Local Government, a comprehensive legislative package designed to modernize and unify the operational framework for the country's municipalities and regions. The Ministry of Interior stated the code integrates and updates nearly 2,000 dispersed provisions that previously governed various aspects of local administration. This move aims to end the confusion arising from differing regulations and overlapping responsibilities that have plagued local governance for years.

The new code introduces significant changes, including the institutionalization of citizen participation through advisory municipal referendums using electronic voting and enhanced safeguards for youth councils. It also strengthens transparency and accountability by mandating the publication of decisions and leveraging digital tools for oversight, fostering greater public trust in local governance.

Furthermore, the code reorganizes the governance system by clarifying the responsibilities of collective bodies like municipal and regional councils. It establishes uniform operating rules to improve efficiency and prevent jurisdictional conflicts. Financial services within local governments will operate under a more transparent system to eliminate ambiguity, and a dedicated unit will oversee legality, focusing strictly on compliance rather than expediency.

The administrative status of local government officials, including their remuneration and activity restrictions, is also clearly defined. The code aims to streamline the multi-level governance structure by precisely delineating the duties of municipalities and regions, ensuring a clear division of responsibilities across different administrative tiers and improving overall effectiveness.