On July 24, 1974, Greece ended its military dictatorship and established democracy. Today, Greece marks this milestone with state ceremonies, exhibitions, concerts, and a commemorative 2-euro coin.
The 50-year anniversary is a time of joy, reflecting on the resilience of democracy in Greece. However, it is also a period of reflection due to the tragic events that accompanied the transition, notably the division of Cyprus.
Cyprus Division and the Fall of the Junta
On July 15, 1974, Greek colonels staged a coup against the legitimate government of Cyprus. Turkey feared Greek expansion and sent troops to the island, leading to the occupation of part of Cyprus by Turkish forces. The failure in Cyprus led to the collapse of the Greek junta, which was overthrown on July 23, 1974. On July 24, Konstantinos Karamanlis returned from exile and formed a new government, ushering in a new democratic era.
Resistance and Transition
Greece had seen resistance to the dictatorship before, notably with the bloody suppression of the 1973 student uprising at the Athens Polytechnic. The fall of the junta was driven by events in Cyprus, though significant resistance efforts had already been underway.
Modern Greek Democracy
Greece now reflects on the end of dictatorship and celebrates its democratic achievements. The Third Greek Republic has proven stable despite numerous crises, including political and economic challenges. The military eventually withdrew from politics, and the nation made strides in social and legal reforms, including legalizing same-sex marriage in February 2024.
Challenges and Public Sentiment
Despite progress, many Greeks are dissatisfied with the quality of democracy. Surveys reveal high support for democratic governance but significant dissatisfaction with its implementation. There is widespread mistrust in authorities, the government, and the judiciary, with concerns about corruption and accountability. Many Greeks fear for their future and that of the next generation.
Looking Forward
Greece’s journey over the past 50 years reflects both its democratic triumphs and ongoing challenges. The anniversary is a moment to celebrate the achievements while acknowledging the need for continued improvements in governance and public trust.
