The Observatory of Social Inclusion, as part of the field research it is conducting during the current period, visited the Municipality of Naxos & Small Cyclades. More specifically, during the period of June 30 – July 2, 2025, interviews were conducted with the staff of the Community Center as well as with beneficiaries of social benefits. Additionally, a research visit was carried out at the Municipality’s Day Care Center for the Elderly.
With the staff of the Community Center, discussions focused on the education and employment opportunities the island offers young people. At the same time, a trend of returning to Naxos after their studies was highlighted, driven by prospects for professional rehabilitation and family. Regarding mental health, the increase in cases due to daily life difficulties (e.g., housing, seasonality of work) was emphasized, and their collaborations and future actions were also discussed.
Subsequently, the staff of the Day Care Center for the Elderly referred to its multifaceted work, which began operating in 2003, currently hosting approximately 15 beneficiaries of the program. 
The main concern and desire of the employees is the acquisition of a transport vehicle so that they can serve even more elderly people from all areas of the island.
From their perspective, the beneficiaries of social benefits, who belonged to the 18-40 age group, highlighted the major issue of housing and the insecurity they feel due to high rents and the tendency of residents to convert their properties into tourist businesses. However, they expressed their satisfaction with the living conditions on the island.
Finally, the Observatory would like to thank the Municipality of Naxos & Small Cyclades for their cooperation and contribution to the research, as well as all participants.
(Text and photos: Konstantina Kourkoumari, Theodora Symeonoglou)
