The Plan for the Greek Diaspora
Enhancing our relationship with the Greek Diaspora has been a major governmental priority over the last five years. Key reforms, such as lifting voting restrictions for Greeks abroad and establishing postal voting in EU elections, as well as digitizing state functions, demonstrate the Kyriakos Mitsotakis government's commitment to improving the everyday lives of Diaspora Greeks and strengthening their ties with Greece.
In this regard, with a vision to empower the Greek element worldwide and develop a substantial, reciprocal relationship with the Diaspora, we, together with Minister of Foreign Affairs George Gerapetritis, have designed and presented a comprehensive Strategic Plan for the Greeks Abroad for the period 2024-2027. Having processed and utilized suggestions submitted through an initial consultation phase via the Foreign Ministry’s website and from meetings with expatriate associations and Diaspora Greeks, we have launched a public online consultation on opengov.gr to further inform the public and enhance the plan.
The Plan’s strategic objectives include, inter alia, supporting and developing Diaspora’s networks and structures, promoting the Greek language, history, and culture, engaging the new generation of Greeks abroad, maintaining ties with Orthodox ecclesiastical institutions, and leveraging the expatriate element to enhance Greece's image. Specific operational actions are planned, such as creating a registry of expatriate organizations and a dedicated website, expanding the Greek language learning platform staellinika.com, digitizing consular services, supporting cultural activities of the Diaspora, highlighting the role of women in the Diaspora, and implementing various educational programs for hosting and internships for young people.
The Strategic Plan for Greeks Abroad is an ambitious yet realistic endeavor, a modernizing breakthrough in the policy for the Diaspora, owing to the following features:
• Duration and Dynamic Nature: The four-year horizon and the structured objectives ensure continuity in the plan’s implementation, while ongoing evaluation of actions will contribute to their adjustment and improvement.
• Modern Means: Emphasizing the use of modern technological tools, such as digital media and artificial intelligence, and the best possible utilization of expertise and resources, is crucial for effectively meeting the needs of the Diaspora, especially in engaging the youth.
• Cooperation and Participation: Special emphasis is placed on including Diaspora Greeks in shaping and implementing actions and on synergies with other ministries, local government, and ecclesiastical, educational, and cultural bodies.
This year, we celebrate 50 years since the restoration of Democracy in our country. Greece in 2024 is a modern state, on a development trajectory, with solid institutions and an increased role in Europe and the world. Strengthening ties with the Greek Diaspora is crucial for deepening our democracy and creating conditions of security and prosperity for all citizens. It is a matter of major national importance that will largely determine the future of our country and the entire Hellenism.
August 7, 2024