Greek retirees protest as modest pension hike fails to offset personal deductions

Greece’s upcoming budget proposes a small increase in pension payments, yet the formula applies only to the portion of the pension that exceeds a personal deduction, so many retirees will receive only a marginal boost. The pensioners’ network explains that if the personal deduction exceeds a certain amount, the percentage rise does not affect that part of the benefit. Over half a million pensioners fall into this category, risking increases that do not cover the full base pension.

In response, coordinated retiree groups have launched nationwide protests, calling for substantial raises across all pensions, universal cash benefits, and the restoration of various social entitlements. Demonstrations started in the morning in cities such as Larissa and Livadeia, with a major march planned from Kotzia Square toward the Health Ministry, followed by actions in Thessaloniki, Ptolemaida, Tripoli and Alexandroupoli.