The idyllic Greek island of Mykonos, renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, is facing a growing crisis as criminal activities and overdevelopment threaten its reputation as a premier tourist destination. A recent incident has brought these issues to the forefront, prompting authorities to take action.
In July 2024, Panagiotis Stathis, a 54-year-old surveyor with decades of experience in Mykonos, was fatally shot in Athens. This event has exposed a hidden network of criminality on the island, involving property disputes, protection rackets, and drug trafficking.
Mykonos, part of the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, covers an area of approximately 85.5 square kilometers. Known for its iconic windmills and white-washed cubic houses, the island has been a popular tourist destination since the 1950s. However, its rapid development in recent years has attracted unwanted attention from criminal elements.
Local authorities and residents have expressed concern about the island's future. Markos Pasaliadis, from the Movement of Active Citizens, stated, "There is a lot of money to be made from property on Mykonos and this has attracted criminality."
The Greek newspaper Kathimerini published an editorial questioning who truly governs Mykonos, highlighting the extent of the problem. In response, Greece's minister for civil protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, visited the island, promising to increase police presence and restore order.
"It's a fact that Mykonos has changed in the last 10 years. There are many big companies, both Greek and foreign, that are investing in tourism in Mykonos and there are people who follow the money."
The island's economy, primarily based on tourism, has seen significant growth. Mykonos now boasts 73 five-star hotels on its 33 square miles, generating annual revenue of €750 million. This rapid development has led to concerns about the island's carrying capacity and the preservation of its traditional character.
Mykonos's unique blend of history and modernity has made it a favorite among tourists. The island, named after its first ruler Mykons, has a rich mythological history associated with nearby Delos. It features several museums, including the Archaeological Museum and Folklore Museum, alongside its famous beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise.
As Mykonos grapples with these challenges, the island's future hangs in the balance. Authorities and residents alike are working to preserve the charm that has made Mykonos "the island that seduced the world" while addressing the pressing issues of crime and overdevelopment.