Greek citizens living abroad will now be able to participate in national elections through postal voting, after Parliament approved the relevant provisions of the Ministry of Interior’s bill with over 200 votes in favor.
The legislation covers Articles 13 to 25, which deal specifically with postal voting, receiving 201 votes in favor, although individual articles recorded slightly different results. The measure is expected to be implemented in the next national elections and will apply to voters residing outside Greece for at least 18 months after the first election.
Support for the provisions came from 156 members of New Democracy, 32 from PASOK, and 13 independent MPs, including former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. The Freedom Movement (Plefsi Eleftherias) voted in favor of certain articles only. Article 13, which outlines the purpose of postal voting, also gained the support of SYRIZA MP Nina Kasimati and five MPs from the Freedom Movement.
Detailed results of the parliamentary vote were as follows:
- Article 13: 207 in favor, 61 against, 28 abstentions
- Article 14–17: 201 in favor, 61 against, 34 abstentions
- Article 18: 201 in favor, 66 against, 29 abstentions
- Article 19: 201 in favor, 61 against, 34 abstentions
- Article 20: 201 in favor, 48 against, 47 abstentions
- Article 21–24: 201 in favor, 62–67 against, 28–33 abstentions
- Article 25: 202 in favor, 88 against, 6 abstentions
Additionally, articles concerning the creation of a new three-seat constituency for overseas voters were approved by a majority. These provisions will also take effect at least 18 months after the first election. The measure aims to simplify voting procedures for Greek citizens abroad and ensure their political representation.
