New Democracy Party

The Greek New Democracy party, often abbreviated as ND (from its Greek name, Nea Dimokratia), is a center-right political party in Greece. Founded in 1974 by Konstantinos Karamanlis, it emerged in the wake of the restoration of democracy following the fall…   of the military junta that had ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974. The party's formation marked a pivotal moment in Greek political history, aiming to consolidate democratic governance and foster a sense of national reconciliation.<br /><br />New Democracy's ideological foundation is rooted in liberal conservatism, advocating for a market economy, private enterprise, and the promotion of individual liberties within a framework of law and order. The party also espouses the values of European integration and has been a proponent of Greece's participation in the European Union and the Eurozone, reflecting its commitment to Western alliances and international cooperation.<br /><br />Over the years, New Democracy has also incorporated elements of social conservatism, emphasizing traditional family values, national identity, and the importance of the Greek Orthodox Church in the cultural and spiritual life of the country. However, it has balanced these with a degree of social liberalism, particularly in its more recent iterations, recognizing the need for social cohesion and the protection of civil rights.<br /><br />Fiscally, New Democracy promotes economic policies aimed at stimulating growth, reducing unemployment, and achieving fiscal stability. This includes advocating for lower taxes, reducing public spending, and creating a more business-friendly environment to attract investment and encourage entrepreneurship. The party's approach to economic management is often contrasted with that of more left-leaning parties in Greece, which tend to favor greater state intervention in the economy and more robust social welfare programs.<br /><br />Throughout its history, New Democracy has played a significant role in Greek politics, governing the country for multiple terms. Its leaders and members have been pivotal in navigating Greece through various challenges, including economic crises, social upheavals, and issues related to immigration and national security. As of our last update in 2023, New Democracy remains a major force in Greek politics, advocating for policies that it believes will secure a prosperous, stable, and democratic future for Greece.Read more