ABSTRACT
This chapter examines leisure policy as a form of intervention which may be vital in improving the quality of life in deprived inner city areas, or, more generally, 'disadvantaged' areas of a large conurbation like Athens. In Athens, leisure is closely connected with open-air activities, as for almost two-thirds of the year the climate allows, or makes it necessary, to stay out-of-doors for long periods of time. All local authorities in deprived areas of Athens have given some attention to the provision of leisure facilities, as a means of improving the quality of life. An alternative to commercialized leisure is, to a certain extent, provided by public facilities and the voluntary sector. The concept of leisure, as analysed by Dumazedier to include 'activities oriented towards self-fulfilment' is best rendered in Greek by the word for culture. The main channel for policy making in cultural development is the Ministry of Culture.
