Greek water price hikes reflect a trend toward commodification, contrasting with European movements to reassert public control over water resources.
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Increases in water tariffs by EYDAP and recent share sales by EYATH are part of a broader trend towards commodifying water management in Greece, favoring privatization and private capital entry. Conversely, many European states and municipalities are moving to reassert public control over water after periods of expensive private experimentation. In Greece, water prices rose sharply starting January 1, 2026, with significant increases for both domestic and sewage services, reflecting a regulatory decision for 2025-2029. These hikes have caused strong reactions from citizens and local governments, who argue that the government is prioritizing profits over public welfare. Critics contend that water should be treated as a common good, not a commercial product, warning against unchecked increases driven by operational costs or infrastructure needs.
Internationally, trends vary: France has seen a shift back towards public management in many cities after past privatization issues; Italy maintains public ownership but allows mixed service provision; Hungary operates under a centralized state model with frozen residential prices since 2013; Ireland reversed domestic water charges following significant social protests; and Germany largely keeps water services under municipal control, having reversed privatization efforts due to strong public opposition. Spain features a decentralized system where private entities serve over half the population, leading to regional price disparities.
