Greek farmers at an impasse

Greek farmers are demanding changes to the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization (ELGA) regulations to expand compensation coverage for climate-induced damage.

However, ELGA chief Andreas Lykourentzos warns that a “dramatic reform” is unfeasible due to financial constraints. Farmers argue that current compensation levels are insufficient, with losses often exceeding payouts by substantial margins.

The agriculture sector is suffering, with climate change increasing damage – impacting nearly 60% of crops in recent years. Issues include heat-damaged melons, failing olive harvests, and uninsurable mildew outbreaks.

Farmers continue protests in Thessaly, blocking roads to demand government action. Officials propose an EU-wide disaster fund but note no viable private insurance alternative exists.