Most Greeks wish for financial security in new year: survey

After seven years of economic hardships since the outbreak of the Greek debt crisis, an overwhelming majority of Greeks wish for financial security in the new year, according to results of a poll released late Monday.

The survey, carried out by the MRB polling firm for the real.gr news portal, found that most respondents were not optimistic about the coming year.

When they were asked to use one word to express their feelings, some 63 percent chose "worry," 48 percent "fear," 30 percent "anger" and 24 percent "shame."

In stark contrast, only 13 percent said they had positive feelings, using such words as hope, confidence, pride and security.

Meanwhile, some 64 percent of participants wished for "more security about the future" for 2017 and 50 percent hoped that their financial situation could improve.

Widespread pessimism is also reflected in the high rate of correspondents considering moving to another country.

If there is an opportunity, 36 percent of the surveyed said they would leave the country.

The wish rises to 71 percent in the age group of 18-24 and 60 percent for those aged 25-34.

The survey polled 2,000 people throughout the country. Endi