New Democracy proposes changes to identity, institutions, education and economy
New Democracy has officially submitted its proposal for constitutional revision, bringing forward a comprehensive set of reforms addressing national identity, institutions, society, and the economy. ... <a title="New Democracy proposes changes to identity, institutions, education and economy" class="read-more" href="https://newsfire.gr/en/new-democracy-proposes-changes-to-identity-institutions-education-and-economy/" aria-label="Read more about New Democracy proposes changes to identity, institutions, education and economy">Read more</a>
New Democracy has officially submitted its proposal for constitutional revision, bringing forward a comprehensive set of reforms addressing national identity, institutions, society, and the economy. The proposal is organized into four main categories: identity-related, social, institutional, and development provisions.
Identity and National Symbols
In the area of identity provisions, New Democracy is seeking constitutional protection for the Greek Flag as an enduring symbol of the nation and its civilization, as well as safeguards for the Greek language as a carrier of national heritage. Additionally, the proposal includes provisions for the application of Artificial Intelligence in a manner that respects human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Social Reforms and Education
Among the social provisions, a notable proposal calls for extending compulsory education from nine to eleven years. A central element is the liberalization of Higher Education from the state monopoly, allowing the establishment of non-state, non-profit or private universities through revision of Article 16. The proposal also emphasizes protection of the natural and social environment, addressing climate change, managing water resources, and restoring forests.
Institutional Changes and Balances
The institutional reforms focus on strengthening checks and balances. Among other measures, the proposal calls for re-examination of Article 29 concerning political parties, with clear prerequisites for their establishment and operation, as well as continuous oversight of their internal democracy.
For the President of the Republic, a six-year term is proposed with a transitional provision for the current President. The ability to dissolve Parliament by invoking a serious national issue would be abolished. Going forward, dissolution would occur through a government proposal and a Parliamentary decision to renew the popular mandate.
The proposal also introduces postal voting for voters within the country, while the electoral system must ensure reasonable proportionality and governability. Particular emphasis is placed on institutional protection of the role of members of Parliament.
Ministerial Responsibility
Regarding ministerial responsibility, New Democracy proposes changes aimed at balancing impunity and excessive punitiveness. The amelliti (immediate prosecution) is abolished, preliminary examination passes to an Appeals Court Prosecutor and the prosecution proposal to a Supreme Court Prosecutor, while Parliament decides by absolute majority and roll-call vote.
Civil Service and Economic Provisions
Concerning the permanence of civil servants, the proposal provides for a redefinition of the concept in the Constitution. The government camp reminds that legislation already exists regulating evaluation, rewards and penalties, including definitive dismissal.
In the development provisions, the concept of social market economy predominates. State provision for affordable housing is included, while reference is made to a sustainable state budget.
The government now awaits the contribution of opposition parties to a dialogue that begins with a concrete foundation, although expectations for broader consensus remain limited.
With information from NewsFire GR
