Tech billionaire Elon Musk ignited heated debate on Tuesday after expressing concern over Greece’s worsening demographic crisis. His comment came in response to reports that the country will shut down more than 700 schools for the 2025–2026 academic year due to plummeting birth rates.
Musk shared an article from Visegrád 24 on his profile on platform X, adding just two words: “Death of Greece.” The post quickly went viral, drawing more than 1.8 million views within hours and sparking intense discussions across social media.
A Shrinking School System
According to official figures, Greece is set to close 721 schools nationwide this year, including 324 primary schools and 358 kindergartens. The closures reflect a sharp decline in student numbers, as Greece records one of the lowest fertility rates in the European Union—about 1.3 births per woman.
Experts warn that if the demographic decline continues unchecked, it could have severe long-term consequences for the country’s economy, workforce, and social fabric.
Musk’s Repeated Warnings
The Tesla and SpaceX CEO has frequently spoken about falling global fertility rates, describing them as one of the greatest threats to civilization. Musk has argued that economic growth, innovation, and even cultural preservation are at risk if birth rates remain below replacement levels.
His stark phrase, “Death of Greece,” is being interpreted by many as not only a warning to Athens but also a signal to other countries grappling with similar demographic challenges, including Italy, Spain, and Japan.
Public Reaction
The post triggered a flood of reactions online. Some echoed Musk’s alarm, calling the school closures a “national tragedy.” Others countered that immigration, policy reforms, and technological innovation could help mitigate the crisis.
