Thanos Plevris replaces Voridis amidst corruption scandal in Greece's migration ministry

In Greece, a significant political shift occurred when Thanos Plevris was sworn in as the new migration and asylum minister on June 30, 2025. This change came in the wake of Makis Voridis's resignation, who stepped down to defend himself against serious allegations of involvement in an organized fraud scheme related to the distribution of EU farm subsidies. Voridis's resignation was part of a broader scandal that involved five government officials, including three deputy ministers and a secretary general, who also resigned following accusations of malpractice in managing agricultural funds. These allegations were rooted in claims that substantial amounts of EU subsidies were being granted wrongly to individuals making false declarations about their agricultural assets. The European Public Prosecutor's Office had gathered evidence that prompted this investigation, ultimately sending a substantial file to the Greek Parliament, which spotlighted possible involvement from government ministers. Furthermore, members of Parliament in Greece enjoy immunity from prosecution unless it is lifted by a parliamentary vote, complicating the proceedings. Voridis denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he aims to clear his name, underscoring a narrative of political accountability. Under Thanos Plevris's leadership, no drastic changes to Greece's existing migration policy are anticipated, and he has pledged to uphold a tough stance on migration, similar to his predecessor. This political reshuffle and the ongoing inquiry into corruption within the government are indicative of the challenges faced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his New Democracy party, as they attempt to address and reform issues related to graft and corruption within the public sector.