Election Countdown in Greece- Greece for Visitors

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Election Countdown in Greece

Dateline: 3/22/00 Update

The campaigns for the April 9th elections are heating up in Greece.

The Acropolis and other attractions will be closed on Election Day, April 9th.

Depending on which poll is consulted, only about one percent separates the ruling Panhellino Socialistiko Kinima (PASOK) party from its primary rival, New Democracy (ND). As in most free elections worldwide, it looks like the votes of the "undecideds" will determine who guides Greece in the coming period. Also familiar, especially to U.S. readers, is that both parties are fighting to claim the title of being the "true reformist party". What either wants to reform at the moment is less clear - Greece is enjoying a strongly improved economy, enhanced worldwide image, and what is probably the best relations ever with long-time rival, Turkey.

But Greece at least gets a break from the endless opinion polls - ten days before the elections, a moratorium on public polling kicks in, letting voters make their final decisions in relative peace.

A Tale of Two Costas

PASOK, the empowered Socialist party headed by Costas Simitis, comes to the elections having effectively steered Greece through EU membership, bringing the economy in line with the strict requirements of EU monetary membership, and improving relations with Turkey.

New Democracy, (ND) under Costas Karamanlis, considered as the conservative party, which previously held power in Greece, is promising prison reform, improved social programs, and voices for those they believe have been disenfranchised under PASOK's rule.

Ever-present but running a distant third is the Greek Communist Party (KKE).

What impact will the elections have on travel and tourism? Minimal. Between now and the election, there will be political rallys and probably a protest or two as minor parties seek the attention of the public. Syntagma Square, the backdrop for ND's political posturing, may be crowded for some events and this will naturally affect traffic, though the new Athens Metro has been taking some of the burden off the streets surrounding the square.

Election day itself may be challenging for a traveler, as many Greeks will be paying much more attention to the voting than to their usual occupations. Allow for delays. Many exhibits and attractions will be closed. Flights into and around Greece are also proving difficult to get on the days surrounding Election Day.

Whichever party wins, the overall effect on tourism will be slight. As a major revenue producer, travel and tourism are supported by both parties.

Related Links and References:
Politics and Modern Greek History
Athens News Agency