Field Research in the Municipality of Kalymnos

The Social Inclusion Observatory continues its field research in the Municipalities of the South Aegean for the 6th consecutive year. This year, the primary objective of the research is transitioning from merely mapping social needs to a more complex investigation of local variations, changes, common trends, and the potential for collaborative action against social challenges.

Within the framework of the field research conducted across multiple Municipalities in the South Aegean Region, the on-site study in Kalymnos took place on Friday, October 2nd, 2026.

The researcher, Ms. Dimitra Tasiopoulou, interviewed the coordinator of the Community Center of the Municipality of Kalymnos, Ms. Kalliopi Engleziou.

Ms. Engleziou stated that the primary need the Facility is called to address is the psychosocial support of the beneficiaries, while the majority of them are unemployed.

Regarding staffing, infrastructure, and available resources, the Community Center coordinator mentioned that they do not face any immediate problems. At the same time, she highlights that while the need for welfare benefits has historically increased, the provision of the Guaranteed Minimum Income has significantly decreased.

Additionally, an interview was conducted with the Head of the Nursery and Preschool Station of the Municipality of Kalymnos and Deputy Head of the Directorate of Preschool Education, Ms. Maria Florou. Ms. Florou informed us that this specific Facility resulted from the merger of three (3) different stations, which, following their union, are now housed in a new, fully equipped building. She emphasized that despite the fact that fifteen (15) staff members and a pediatrician (as an external partner) work at the station, there is no psychologist, school nurse, or any staff member with the appropriate specialization to support children with special needs. This issue has already been raised by the station to the Municipal Council of the Municipality of Kalymnos.

We would like to warmly thank the Municipality of Kalymnos and the Nursery and Preschool Station of the Municipality of Kalymnos for their hospitality, their participation in the research, as well as for their interest and support in our work.

(Text & photos: Dimitra Tasiopoulou)