Movement for Change

Movement for Change. It is a political organization that emerged in the early 21st century, positioned within the center-left spectrum of its national political landscape. The group was founded by a breakaway faction from a major social democratic party, seeking to modernize progressive politics and address perceived stagnation. Its formation marked a significant realignment, drawing support from various civil society groups, trade unions, and disaffected voters.

History

The genesis of the organization can be traced to internal dissent within the Social Democratic Party, particularly following its electoral defeat in the 2019 general election. Key figures, including former cabinet ministers like Kyriakos Pierrakakis and influential backbenchers, began organizing under the banner of "Democratic Renewal." A decisive break occurred after a contentious party conference in Thessaloniki, leading to a formal founding congress in Athens. Its early growth was bolstered by endorsements from the Greek General Confederation of Labour and several municipal leaders. The group first contested the 2023 Greek legislative election, establishing itself as a new force and holding the balance of power in a hung parliament.

Ideology and political positions

Ideologically, it advocates for a modernized social liberalism, emphasizing technocratic governance, green growth, and digital transformation of the state. Its economic platform supports a strong social market economy, increased investment in renewable energy projects like solar and wind, and reforms to the Eurozone's fiscal rules. On social issues, it champions LGBT rights, including support for same-sex marriage, and progressive reforms to the national healthcare system. In foreign policy, it is staunchly pro-European Union, supports NATO solidarity, and advocates for a robust stance against Russian aggression in Ukraine.

Leadership and organization

The party is led by a President, currently a former minister of finance, who was elected at the 2022 leadership election. The organizational structure includes a central Political Committee and a broader National Council, with significant influence wielded by its youth wing, "Neolaia." Key figures include spokesperson Nikos Pappas, parliamentary group leader Maria Spyraki, and policy coordinator Olga Gerovasili. It maintains a membership-based structure and is funded through state subsidies, private donations regulated by the National Transparency Authority, and contributions from affiliated organizations like the Panhellenic Federation of Agricultural Associations.

Electoral performance

It first entered the Hellenic Parliament following the May 2023 Greek legislative election, winning 8.1% of the vote and securing 25 seats. In the subsequent June 2023 Greek legislative election under a revised electoral law, it increased its share to 11.5% and 42 seats, becoming the third-largest party. Its strongest performances were in urban centers like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras, while it made significant inroads in traditional strongholds of New Democracy. In the 2024 European Parliament election, it elected four MEPs, including Anna-Michelle Asimakopoulou, who joined the Renew Europe group.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced criticism from both the left and right. Rivals from the Coalition of the Radical Left accuse it of embracing neoliberal policies and abandoning core welfare state principles. It has been scrutinized for accepting donations from major business figures like Spyros Latsis and for the past consulting work of some officials for firms like McKinsey & Company. Internal controversy arose over its stance on the North Macedonia naming dispute, with some founding members departing. Major newspapers like Kathimerini and Avgi have also questioned the coherence of its alliance strategy and its perceived vacillation on issues such as privatization of the Public Power Corporation.

Category:Political parties in Greece Category:2022 establishments in Greece Category:Centre-left parties in Greece