The Greek Left Is in Desperate Need of Renewal
Greece’s left-wing Syriza party has been in crisis since it capitulated to the Troika in 2015. At national elections last month, it was trounced at the polls by the incumbent New Democracy party — meaning another four years of neoliberal policies.
Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras gives a speech in Athens, Greece, on May 31, 2023. (George Panagakis / Pacific Press / LightRocket via Getty Images)
The Left suffered a historic defeat in national elections held in Greece two weeks ago. Syriza, in opposition since the Right came to power in 2019, was crushed at the polls, losing to New Democracy by a full twenty points.
All preelection polls had suggested a narrow victory for New Democracy, but the results were far more punishing, with Syriza managing to win just 20 percent of the total vote. The conservative party hasn’t managed to form a government yet, however, due to an electoral reform introduced by Syriza in 2016, forcing an almost-absolute majority for any party, or the formation of coalitions. A second election will take place on June 25, which should allow New Democracy to form a government.
New Democracy’s first term in office was known for corruption, cruelty, and the implementation of a slew of neoliberal policies across the board. Rights for workers, renters, migrants, and the environment have all suffered since 2019, as inequality has continued to rise.
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