How a single journalist transformed the landscape of Greek politics
In short: Founded by a journalist and historian, Greek Solution has rapidly surged from a minor political newcomer to a major force in the Hellenic Parliament. By blending ultranationalism with economic nationalism, the party has captured a significant portion of the Greek electorate, challenging established political norms through a platform of strict border control and traditional values.
Established in June 2016 by Kyriakos Velopoulos, a former member of the Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS), Greek Solution has seen a dramatic rise in electoral influence. The party's ascent began in 2019, when it secured 4.18% of the vote in the European Parliament elections and 3.7% in the Greek legislative elections. By the 2024 European Parliament elections, the party's momentum continued as it more than doubled its vote share to 9.3%, becoming the fourth largest party and surpassing the KKE.
The party's platform is defined by a hardline stance on immigration and national identity. Key proposals include installing an electric fence on the Greece–Turkey border and detting illegal immigrants on uninhabited islands. Ideologically, the party is described as right-wing to far-right, encompassing ultranationalist and national conservative elements. Velopoulos has drawn parallels between his 'Greece first' stance and Donald Trump's 'America First' agenda, while also expressing admiration for the governance of Viktor Orbán in Hungary.
Greek Solution's economic and foreign policy presents a complex geopolitical profile. While the party advocates for economic nationalism—focusing on the primary sector, agriculture, and the exploitation of mineral wealth—it also maintains a pro-Russian stance. Velopoulos has defended Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine by comparing it to potential American actions in Mexico. Despite these pro-Russian sentiments, the party maintains a pro-Israel stance and supports the EastMed pipeline, while remaining skeptical of increased defense cooperation with the United States.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Greek Solution
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