Fourna faces extinction as aging population declines
- Fourna, a village in central Greece, faces demographic collapse with only 180 inhabitants.
- A partnership between a schoolteacher and a local priest has led to families relocating to the village.
- The community's efforts to support family life are revitalizing Fourna and boosting local businesses.
In the remote mountainous regions of Greece lies the village of Fourna, which is struggling with demographic challenges due to its aging population. With only 180 remaining inhabitants, the community has seen a significant decline, with the local school barely keeping afloat as it faced closure amidst dwindling numbers. Recently, a partnership between the local schoolteacher, Panagiota Diamanti, and the Rev. Dousikos has breathed new life into the village. Their campaign, 'New Life in the Village,' has successfully encouraged families to relocate there, leading to eight children attending elementary school for the first time in many years. This revival is closely tied to the Orthodox Church's failure to inspire families to prioritize family life, emphasizing that children bring hope and renewal to the community. The presence of children has brought a sense of optimism that many thought impossible, and the local businesses are thriving as a result. Vassilikoudis, who runs a local restaurant and guesthouse, expressed surprise at the influx of families and how the village's atmosphere has improved, contributing positively to commerce and daily life. The demographic crisis in Greece is exacerbated by one of the oldest populations in the world, with 23% of the populace aged 65 or older. To combat this issue, the Greek government has initiated programs to enhance family benefits, and the Orthodox Church plays a vital role in advocating for family unity and spiritual connection to one another. These efforts are essential to avoid the fate of many remote villages that have vanished or are close to collapse. With the actions of local leaders in Fourna, the hope is to create an enduring legacy through future generations. The local community's ability to adapt and actively draw new life back into their village can serve as a model for similar regions facing demographic challenges. However, the success of initiatives like these remains a test of time, as the activities in Fourna show that a collaborative spirit and dedication to community and family values can lead to rejuvenation even in times of crisis.