Empirical analysis of economic growth in Greece and the relationship between the index of democracy and corruption (2012–2022)
This study investigates the complex interrelationship between democracy, corruption, and economic growth in Greece over the period 2012–2022. Using data from Transparency International, the Economist Intelligence Unit, and Eurostat, appropriate methods such as Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression, Generalized Method of Moments(GMM) estimation, and Granger causality tests were applied. The findings reveal that increased democracy correlates positively with reported corruption, likely reflecting heightened transparency and exposure. Conversely, economic growth shows a negative association with corruption, underlining the role of structural reforms and institutional improvements. These insights emphasize the need for strengthening democratic institutions, promoting digital governance, and implementing targeted economic reforms to reduce corruption and foster sustainable development.