The Greek social security agency EFKA has announced that it will initiate recalculations of pensions that were established before May 2016, which is expected to lead to reductions in many cases. Contrary to expectations raised by Law 4670/2020, which aimed to improve the pension adjustment rates, these new assessments are highlighting errors that have resulted in previously issued pensions being over-calculated in some instances, consequently necessitating refunds from pensioners. This highlights the need for accuracy and transparency in pension calculations, particularly for those reliant on their pensions for their financial security.

Among the groups most affected by these pension recalculations are workers engaged in heavy and hazardous professions, as well as widows receiving pensions. Construction workers and those in mining operations will face the most substantial impacts, raising concerns about the livelihoods of these vulnerable segments of the workforce. The changes have sparked anxiety and uncertainty among pensioners who now face potential reductions in their monthly benefits after years of reliance on these amounts for their daily livelihoods.

This development amplifies the ongoing debates regarding pension reform in Greece, as it contradicts the improvements that were anticipated following legislative changes aimed at enhancing pension standards. The government may need to address these disparities to maintain public trust and ensure fair treatment for all pensioners, especially those who have dedicated their careers to physically demanding occupations or are relying on widow's benefits during vulnerable times of their lives.