Austerity and the third sector in Greece: civil society at the European frontline

Organised civil society in Greece is generally regarded as weak with rankings for associational density, volunteerism and levels of social capital traditionally among the lowest in Europe.

Austerity and the Third Sector in Greece explores the context behind the statistics and general perceptions of a society of takers, not givers.

Stereotypes of a country living beyond its means have been exacerbated by the Eurozone crisis but, since 2008, there has in fact been a great proliferation of organised civil society initiatives in the country.

Has the financial crisis seen a belated awakening of Greek civil society?