Legal Framework and Key Programmes

There is no dedicated national legal framework in Greece that prescribes e-participation mechanisms specifically for young people (such as statutory rights to e-voting or national e-consultation platforms). However, digital engagement in public policy processes and online participation tools are supported indirectly through broader democracy and youth policy initiatives, including EU-level platforms made accessible to Greek youth.

At the European level, the European Citizens’ Participation Platform (Citizens’ Participation Platform) allows all EU citizens, including young people from Greece, to take part in online consultations and debates on EU policy areas, submit proposals and comment on ongoing discussions. This platform provides a space for interactive many-to-many engagement and supports the contribution of digital input into policy development processes across topics that concern young people.

There are also digital democracy initiatives operated by civil society actors in Greece that promote online participation in decision-making processes. For example, the Digital Democracy Foundation runs platforms designed to support digital public consultation, online civic campaigns and participatory budgeting, enabling citizens — including young people — to express views, engage in dialogue and monitor public policy developments online. 

While there is no formalised national e-voting system for youth participation in public elections or referendums, Greece’s overall digital governance strategy increasingly recognises the role of ICT and digital channels in facilitating democratic engagement. 

Programmes, Projects and Initiatives

Several programmes facilitate e-participation and digital engagement for young people — often in the context of broader youth policy or EU-supported initiatives:

• European Youth Dialogue and Online Debate Platforms: At the EU level, initiatives such as annual online youth dialogues and the Citizens’ Participation Platform provide channels for young people to discuss policy issues, share concerns and contribute to EU policy-making digitally. These forums often use interactive digital tools such as discussion threads, surveys and collaborative feedback functions. 

• Erasmus+ Projects on Youth Participation: The Erasmus+ programme supports projects that include digital engagement components to encourage youth involvement in democratic processes, such as online campaigns, digital workshops and participatory events that combine online and in-person components. These initiatives use ICT tools as part of broader activities to stimulate participation in civic life at local, national and international levels. 

• Digital Social Participation Platforms: Platforms developed by organisations such as the Digital Democracy Foundation provide user-friendly interfaces for real-time digital consultation, information sharing and engagement with decision-making processes, including tools for citizens to monitor policy development and submit proposals.

ICT Tools Used

The main tools and channels used for e-participation include:

• Online consultation platforms (e.g. the European Citizens’ Participation Platform) for submitting views, commenting and participating in debates. 
• Social media channels and youth-oriented digital campaigns run by public bodies, NGOs and youth organisations to raise awareness and encourage interactive engagement.
• Digital portals supported by civic tech organisations that facilitate participatory budgeting, online civic campaigns and digital monitoring of public policy. 
• ICT workshops and training events that develop digital literacy and competence for effective online engagement, often in partnership with civil society or education institutions. 

These tools are accessible via internet platforms, mobile devices and social media, enabling many-to-many communication pathways that reach young people across different demographic groups.

Target Groups

Most e-participation opportunities do not exclusively target specific sub-groups of young people by design, but many initiatives emphasise inclusiveness, encouraging participation from young people with diverse backgrounds, including those who may face barriers to traditional forms of engagement (e.g. geographic or socioeconomic constraints). Programmes supported by Erasmus+ and EU youth policy often include inclusivity criteria in projects to ensure broader reach among young people. 

National Data or Studies

National studies specifically analysing the relationship between e-participation and youth political engagement in Greece are limited. However, academic research indicates that digital communication and social media use have a strong link to political participation among young people, influencing both online and offline political engagement. International studies show that increased online participation correlates with higher overall political activity among youth, though the direct impact on electoral behaviour can vary.