Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced the Strategic Plan for Hellenes Abroad 2024-2027, an extensive program aimed at deepening Greece’s relationship with its global diaspora on Wednesday.
Hosted at the ministry’s amphitheatre in Athens, the event was attended by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, who both underscored the importance of strengthening ties between Greece and its expatriate communities through consular service improvements, cultural initiatives, and increased democratic participation.
Key areas of focus
The new Strategic Plan includes over 100 initiatives across six main areas, designed to address the unique needs of Greek communities worldwide. These focus promise to enhance cultural connections, preserve heritage, and simplify the lives of Greeks abroad.
Prime minister Mitsotakis highlighted Greece’s commitment to resolving longstanding frustrations faced by the diaspora, particularly by modernising consular services to increase accessibility.
“Improving digital communication and training consulate staff to better serve Greeks abroad is crucial,” Mitsotakis said, citing the efforts as pivotal to strengthening connections between Greeks worldwide.
Innovations in consular services
A significant component of the plan is the modernisation of consular services, including the integration of digital tools to streamline processes.
Foreign minister Gerapetritis stressed the advancements achieved through “MyConsulLive,” a platform that incorporates artificial intelligence to provide virtual support.
Additionally, recent legislation enables the digital processing of passport applications for expatriates in collaboration with the Ministry of Citizen Protection, expediting essential services for Greeks worldwide.
Gerapetritis praised the developments, explaining, “The Strategic Plan tailors its approach to meet the diverse needs of expatriates. Greek communities abroad are not a homogeneous group; they have unique needs, and digital advancements now allow us to bridge distances.”
Cultural heritage and identity programs
A priority of the Strategic Plan is preserving Greek identity and heritage among younger generations in the diaspora. The government has launched new initiatives, including the Diaspora.gr platform and summer hospitality programs, to foster a deeper connection to Greek language, culture, and history. These initiatives are complemented by partnerships with educational institutions such at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
Deputy Foreign Minister Georgios Kotsiras described the plan as a “living document,” explaining that it will evolve with the changing needs of Greek communities worldwide.
Collaborative efforts with institutions like Simon Fraser University in Canada will enhance the StaEllinika online platform, which offers Greek language lessons for young diaspora Greeks and foreign users alike.
Enhancing democratic participation
In a bid to engage more Greek expatriates in national democratic processes, the government has committed to making voting more accessible for Greeks abroad. By 2027, pending parliamentary approval, Greece plans to expand postal voting options for expatriates, facilitating easier participation in national elections.
“Greece is now among a select group of countries with zero obstacles to voting for its citizens abroad,” Gerapetritis stated.
Global network of Greek studies
The Greek Studies plan aims to promote Greek language and culture by establishing connections with international universities and research centres offering Greek Studies programs.
Next week, a Greek delegation is set to visit Boston to discuss collaborations with Greek Studies departments, aiming to foster global interest in Greek heritage.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also signed an agreement with “Study in Greece” to promote Greek studies internationally, part of a comprehensive approach to encourage the study of Greek language and culture worldwide.
Empowering youth and women in the Diaspora
Initiatives such as the Greek Youth Diaspora Symposium and the “Youth Diaspora Ambassadors” program aim to bring young Greek expatriates together, empowering them to take on ambassadorial roles within their communities.
Women’s roles as cultural custodians are emphasized as well, with a new study, “Women in the Diaspora,” intended to highlight the contributions of women within Greek communities abroad.
Maira Mirogianni, General Secretary for Greeks Abroad, announced the programs, which include seminars and mentoring sessions to foster a stronger sense of belonging and identity among young Greeks in the diaspora.
Looking forward
Prime Minister Mitsotakis praised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for aligning Greece’s strategic goals with the needs of Greeks abroad.
“Strengthening the bond with young Greeks through platforms like StaEllinika is essential,” he said, stressing the government’s goal of nurturing Greek identity and pride among expatriates.
Deputy Minister Kotsiras concluded by emphasising that” Greece’s renewed efforts to engage with its diaspora signal a new chapter in relations between the homeland and Greeks abroad”.
“The government’s initiatives,” he stated, “are designed to support the diaspora, recognise their contributions, and elevate Greece’s international profile.”
