Michalis Chrysochoidis to Protothema: “We Will Secure an Even Higher Share Than in 2023 if We Prove Effective”

In an exclusive interview with Protothema, Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis discussed Greece’s security priorities, law enforcement reforms, and the upcoming electoral outlook.

Protecting Sensitive Targets Amid Middle East Tensions
Addressing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Chrysochoidis reassured that Greece faces no immediate threats. “There is constant intelligence gathering, and sensitive targets are being protected,” he said, adding, “Everything necessary for the country’s security is being done.” He also discussed the regulation of civilian drones and the forthcoming establishment of a General Secretariat for Critical Infrastructure.

The Moment That Scared Him at Evros
Reflecting on 2020, Chrysochoidis recalled the tense moments at the Evros border during a wave of hybrid pressure from Turkey. “I saw 50,000 people attempting to enter the country forcibly. I thought, ‘What am I going to do?’” he said. “Not a single person got through without a shot being fired,” he added with pride.

Crime, Roma Communities, and Public Safety
Chrysochoidis emphasized that measures against crime are yielding results. The Greek FBI has dismantled 200 criminal organizations, and 20,000 alcohol tests each weekend are helping reshape driver behavior. “We have ended violence in stadiums and universities,” he stated, advocating controlled university access while rejecting the creation of a university police force.

On Roma communities, he clarified: “We love the Roma, but we do not support the profession of crime.”

On Immigration and Pushbacks
Chrysochoidis stated that Greece has no reason for pushbacks and encouraged a focus on legal migration to avoid reliance on traffickers.

Addressing Allegations of Excessive Police Force
Responding to criticisms of police overreach, he urged citizens to report any violations that exceed legal limits. Regarding the masked protesters at the 2025 Tempi demonstration, he promised that once investigations are complete, “we will unmask the so-called provocateurs.”

Political Outlook and Elections
Chrysochoidis expressed confidence in New Democracy’s electoral prospects. “We will achieve an even higher percentage than in 2023 if we prove that we are effective,” he said, hinting at potential post-election cooperation with other parliamentary forces, including the PASOK, while emphasizing that stability and decisive governance remain the priority.

Reflections on His Political Career
With 9.5 years as Minister of Citizen Protection in the past 25 years, Chrysochoidis described politics as a field that requires proactivity. “A politician must be a pioneer. If they merely follow the problems of the people, they struggle and ultimately fail. This is what I strive for,” he said. He also reflected on his long-standing experience, from proposing reforms in PASOK decades ago to becoming a key figure in the New Democracy government.

On 17 November and Greek Security History
Finally, when asked about the dismantling of the 17 November terrorist organization, Chrysochoidis’s eyes widened. He affirmed his continued vigilance and expertise regarding past and present security threats, underscoring the importance of law enforcement in safeguarding Greek citizens.