The Legislative Process and Regulatory Interventions in the Greek Democracy: Deep-Rooted Weaknesses and Recommendations for Improvement

Abstract

The economy’s legislative, regulatory, and institutional framework profoundly influences growth. It sets societal norms and motivates economic players towards desired outcomes. Greece faces a complex challenge in enhancing its institutional structure, with interconnected issues demanding comprehensive and persistent intervention. Political stability positively impacts regulatory quality, while instability prompts resistance to government changes, affecting legislation efficacy and governmental honesty. The study identifies two counterproductive forces hindering law improvement. First, the executive power’s reluctance to measure legislative effectiveness Second, there is a pervasive distrust in law enforcers, resulting in convoluted legal frameworks. This setup aligns with statism and a flawed concept of legal certainty. Improving the legal framework requires the executive to prioritize self-assessment of efficacy and trust in law enforcement—a cornerstone of effective liberal democracy. The study advocates specific policy guidelines tailored for the Greek state. Addressing these concerns mandates an all-encompassing, persistent, and introspective approach by those in power. Ultimately, fostering trust, measuring effectiveness, and simplifying legal constructs are vital for Greece to enhance its institutional framework and foster a more effective liberal democracy. Lastly, the provision of training to those who shape and evaluate the laws is crucial to ensure high-quality regulations and interventions.