**Greek primary surplus: Why international organisations systematically underestimate results**

While the budget statement for 2025 is approaching, the phenomenon of continuous upward revisions is repeated. The primary surplus originally estimated at 2.5% of GDP ends up reaching 5%. The European Commission, the IMF and the OECD start with more optimistic forecasts from Athens, but ultimately fall short of reality. The causes: additional revenue from the fight against tax evasion (3 billion euros in 2024), savings of expenditure and policy strategy to avoid excessive expectations.

# The OECD suggests turning from benefits to child care structures

The OECD recommends that the Greek government change the mix of employment-stimulating measures, turning the resources from welfare policy into long-term measures. In a report presented in Paris, the Agency notes that despite its decline, unemployment remains high, while the employment gap between men and women is large. It proposes shifting costs from birth grants to childcare structures, more training instead of job subsidies, and strengthening paternal leave to increase female employment.