The evolution of Regulatory Impact Assessment in Greece, challenges and opportunities of full integration in the legislative process

Abstract This article examines the evolution of Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) in Greece, tracing its development from early efforts in the 2000s to the structured, legally mandated framework in place today. It explores the practical implementation of RIA, focusing on how its institutional architecture functions within real-world bureaucratic settings. Despite the existence of standardized templates and procedural guidelines, RIA is not consistently applied as a tool for evidence-based policymaking. Drawing on a qualitative content analysis of 20 RIAs submitted by nearly all ministries between 2020 and 2024, the study evaluates key components such as problem definition, policy objectives, cost–benefit and risk analysis, use of data, and consideration of policy alternatives. The findings reveal a pattern of procedural compliance but limited analytical depth, with recurring omissions in critical fields such as measurable objectives, regulatory risks, and non-fiscal costs. To interpret these patterns, the analysis highlights the gap between formal institutional design and practical application, arguing that meaningful use of RIA requires early integration into the policy cycle, stronger oversight mechanisms, and a supportive administrative culture. The study concludes with targeted recommendations to enhance institutional practices and promote a more purposeful use of RIA in Greece.