Greece’s population has been “steadily and consistently” declining in recent years, and low birth rates are the greatest challenge the country will face in the future. The issue is well-known, the causes are clear, and the scientific community is sounding the alarm, presenting ominous data for the future, while the government is planning policies to address the demographic problem.

These concerns were discussed at the 15th Panhellenic Conference of Small Islands, held from October 4-6 in Milos. The conference brought together representatives from the government, the European Parliament, local authorities, as well as educational and innovation sectors, to exchange views on critical issues such as transportation in small island communities, the green transition in maritime transport, water shortages, energy autonomy, the environment, and society.

An interesting session of the conference focused on the low birth rate that “plagues small communities” and its impact, particularly on the small islands.

In 2022, Greece recorded its lowest number of births

The phenomenon of low birth rates in Greece, as well as population aging, is an ongoing issue that has persisted for the past 35-40 years. In 2022, Greece recorded the lowest number of births in 92 years, stated Nikolaos Zygouropoulos, MD, ARSOG, AFRSH, MBA (INSEAD), MChem (Oxford University), gynecologist-surgeon, academic fellow, and assistant professor at the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy.

He added that Greece has one of the lowest birth rates in Europe, noting that some villages have not recorded a single birth in years. He further explained that for a nation, country, or region to sustain itself, the fertility rate must consistently remain above 2.1 children per woman.

The Hellenic Intermunicipal Network of Healthy Cities and the Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine (EEAI) presented their proposals to address low birth rates. Their representatives discussed the AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) blood test, the free provision of which was announced by the Prime Minister at the Thessaloniki International Fair. They said this test could be a crucial tool for women, allowing them to know their ovarian reserve in time.

“This knowledge is necessary for planning their lives and making informed decisions regarding their fertility,” said George Patoulis, President of the Athens Medical Association and the Hellenic Intermunicipal Network of Healthy Cities.

Through the Health Centers (KEP) network, the EDDYP has begun raising awareness about the importance of the preventive AMH fertility test. According to Mr. Patoulis, this initiative will also extend to small islands.

“We are committed to fully informing couples, especially young women, about the necessity of AMH testing, so they understand its importance. Symbolically, in this context, the Hellenic Intermunicipal Network of Healthy Cities will offer 500 free tests to women on our 40 small islands,” he emphasized. Low birth rates pose a serious challenge to the social and economic development of small islands. As their population decreases, the viability of these communities is put at risk, Mr. Patoulis said.

“This is the fourth year we have a negative balance between births and deaths in our country. If there are no well-structured policies offering incentives for having children, we will face a deeply negative situation. It is estimated that by 2050, Greece’s population will not exceed 7.5 million,” he added.

“It is time to move beyond simply acknowledging the low birth rate that we all know exists, and take more substantial action, not just through financial support measures, but also by raising awareness about the prevention and preservation of fertility,” stated Konstantinos Pantos, General Secretary of the Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine. He pointed to a significant lack of information in Greece about fertility physiology.

Only one in ten women know that after the age of 35, there is a gradual decline in ovarian reserve, which accelerates after 40. Nearly 48% believe that the chances of natural conception at 40 are between 30-50%, when in fact they are between 3-5%. The primary source of information for 60% of women is the internet, while only 24% receive such education in school. These figures are from a survey by the Hellenic Society of Reproductive Medicine. “If you consider these numbers, it becomes clear that the level of ignorance on such a fundamental and personal issue is dramatic,” Mr. Pantos remarked.

He added, “With increasing age, the chances of having a child drop sharply, whether through natural or assisted reproduction. This is essential information that must be included in any educational effort.”

Low birth rates present a serious challenge to the social and economic development of small islands. As their population dwindles, the sustainability of these communities is jeopardized, speakers emphasized, concluding that the government must offer a social safety net and quality support to encourage young people to have children.