The Trend Towards a Pluralistic Political System under Kostas Simitis, 1996–2002

Abstract

The argument of this paper is that political power in Greece has become increasingly decentralised since Kostas Simitis became Prime Minister in January 1996. The process has made the country more democratic in various ways: the national government has become more accountable to other power centres; opportunities for citizens to participate in the political process have broadened; and citizens’ rights have become better protected. Although moves in this direction began with the collapse of the military dictatorship in July 1974, they have been boosted by a comprehensive programme of modernisation pursued by the Simitis governments.