Maintaining the Greek language, promoting cultural identity of Hellenes across the world, and strengthening the relations between the diaspora and the mother country, are the main objectives stated by the World Council for Hellenes Abroad.
In the most recent mission statement issued by SAE they stated that they would do their utmost to strengthen ties between Hellenes across the world both in other countries as well as with Greece; contribute to the strengthening of relations between countries in which Hellenes reside and Greece; and assist with military conscription, financial and social security issues concerning Hellenes across the world.
“The SAE cares for promotion of issues regarding Hellenes across the world in the relevant countries and within its geographical Regions,” stated the SAE objectives, adding that in order to do this, the SAE “works particularly with the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Senior Patriarchates and the Church”.
Based in Thessaloniki, members of SAE elect the SAE eleven-member Presiding Board every four years as well as the seven-member presiding boards of the regional SAEs. SAE status can be achieved by application and by meeting certain criteria. However, a member of SAE may be removed in the event that their activities oppose SAE’s objectives and / or due to irregularity in observing financial obligations.