Strengthening Local Government in the Face of Climate Crisis

Local government in Greece is called upon to manage the increasing impacts of climate change, such as fires, floods, and heatwaves, with limited resources. An event in Thessaloniki highlighted the need to strengthen municipalities.

Proposals to strengthen local authorities include:

• Funding for green infrastructure.
• Support for adapting to climate change.
• Upgrading the role of KEDE (Central Union of Municipalities of Greece).
• Strengthening Civil Protection at the local level.
• Timely restoration of damages and support for those affected.

While Europe is moving towards empowering local authorities, in Greece, primary local government remains with limited capabilities and fiscal autonomy. Strengthening local government is a political choice to protect society.