Greek government will be firmer on COVID vaccination

Significance

Some 60% of the total population has now been vaccinated, and the majority (90%) of hospitalised patients are unvaccinated. The government is struggling to increase the pace of vaccinations; the unvaccinated population exhibits a strong set of political and cultural beliefs.

Impacts

• Restrictions on unvaccinated people affecting their personal freedoms could lead to lawsuits.
• Small-scale local protests are likely when the government announces new measures.
• Vaccination progress is vital for migrant and Roma communities where social distancing rules are not effective.
• New pandemic outbreaks on small islands will put pressure on local healthcare systems.