Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis Dies at 88

Introduction

Costas Simitis, the former Prime Minister of Greece, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88 at his summer residence in the Peloponnese. His leadership was instrumental in Greece’s entry into the eurozone in 2001, but his legacy remains complex due to economic challenges that followed.

Political Career and Achievements

Simitis led the PASOK socialist party from 1996 to 2004. During his tenure, he focused on fiscal reforms, reducing the budget deficit and public debt, which allowed Greece to join the European Union’s single currency.

As a law professor and reformist, Simitis aimed to modernize Greece’s economy and align it with European standards. His government is credited with significant economic milestones, but his efforts to address corruption were seen as insufficient.

Challenges and Criticism

While Simitis succeeded in achieving eurozone membership, critics argue that his government did not adequately address systemic corruption. Economists point to these failings as contributing factors to Greece’s decade-long debt crisis that erupted five years after he left office.

In his 2012 book Derailment, Simitis criticized Greek and European leaders for their handling of the crisis and accused the European Commission of overlooking fiscal mismanagement during his conservative successor’s administration.

Tributes and Mourning

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis offered condolences, describing Simitis as a “worthy and noble political opponent” who guided Greece through major national developments. The government declared four days of mourning, and Simitis’ funeral will take place on Thursday, January 9, at the state’s expense.

Final Moments and Legacy

Simitis had been vacationing in the Peloponnese before being transferred to a Corinth hospital after falling unconscious. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Costas Simitis leaves behind a complex legacy, marked by his role in Greece’s economic integration with Europe and the unresolved challenges that followed.