The Relationship Between Educational Participation and Equality and Deliberative Democracy in Greece: A Multiple Regression Model


Published: Sep 3, 2025
Keywords:
deliberative democracy comprehensive educational participation and equity index V-Dem database
Anthony Papaoikonomou
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9321-3635
Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between educational participation and equality and the quality of deliberative democracy in Greece. Deliberative democracy is a system grounded in decision-making through consultation and public discourse, aiming at the common good and encouraging active citizen involvement in policy formation. At the core of the study lies the Integrated Index of Educational Participation and Equality (IIEPE), a multidimensional indicator that measures access to and equality in education across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. The index assesses both educational equity and citizen engagement in the educational process.


The research utilizes data from the V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy) database, which offers a wide range of indicators on different forms of democracy worldwide. The aim is to examine whether participation in education influences deliberative democracy in Greece.


The main findings indicate that citizen participation in primary, secondary, and tertiary education does not significantly affect the quality of deliberative democracy in the country. This outcome may be attributed to the devaluation of the Greek educational system or the general inefficiency of public schooling. The study concludes that deliberative democracy in Greece is not impacted by educational participation and equality to the extent that might be expected. It highlights the need for further research and policy interventions to strengthen the role of education in democratic engagement and deliberation.

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