Greece recorded the highest rate of material deprivation among children under 16 in the European Union in 2024, according to new data from Eurostat. One in three children in the country – 33.6% – lacked access to basic goods and activities. The EU average was 13.6%.
Greece was followed by Romania (31.8%) and Bulgaria (30.4%).
Αs defined by Eurostat, a child is considered materially deprived when they are unable to access at least three out of seventeen listed items solely due to lack of affordability. The indicator does not include children who lack an item for other reasons.
The list of deprivation criteria includes:
For the child:
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New clothes
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Two pairs of shoes
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Fresh fruit and vegetables daily
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Meat, chicken or fish daily
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Appropriate books
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Outdoor leisure equipment
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Indoor games
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Participation in leisure activities
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Celebrations on special occasions
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Ability to invite friends over
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Participation in school trips
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A holiday away from home
For the household:
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Ability to replace worn-out furniture
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Capacity to pay bills or debts on time
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Access to the internet for adults
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A home that is adequately warm
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A car
Eurostat’s data once again highlights deep inequalities across the Union, with Greece occupying the top position in yet another critical social indicator.
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