Key interventions regarding Greeks Abroad
The adoption of the draft law establishing postal voting in European elections is a historically significant progressive reform, enhancing democracy and Greece's connection with Hellenism all over the world.
As of the upcoming European elections on June 9, our compatriots living abroad will no longer have to travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers to exercise their fundamental democratic right. They can vote from their place of residence, via a simple and fair procedure - a practice already successfully followed by many countries around the world.
Postal voting is another significant step toward eliminating any practical barriers to the equal participation of Greeks abroad in the country's political life and satisfies a long-standing demand.
After all, the fact that this government initiative was enthusiastically welcomed by our compatriots living abroad, who participated in the public discourse, applauded postal voting, and advocated for its extension to national elections, is not a mere coincidence.
Diaspora Greeks' fervent support for postal voting as well as their willingness to participate in our country's political life, is something I witness on a daily basis in my private contacts with Greeks abroad, with whom I have the opportunity to converse in my capacity as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
By establishing postal voting, we demonstrate in practice that strengthening Diaspora’s voice is our priority. Unfortunately, the opposition parties have failed to overcome petty political calculations and support this bold reform. Therefore, we missed an opportunity to convey a strong message of solidarity to our compatriots living abroad on an issue of national significance.
As a political system, we are called upon to rise to the occasion, seek consensus and take the next significant step as soon as possible by introducing postal voting in national elections as well.
After all, the initiatives regarding Greeks abroad do not end here. We primarily formulate a comprehensive and coordinated government policy on Greek Diaspora with the Strategic Plan for Greeks Abroad (2024-2027), which we presented to the Cabinet this week alongside Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis. The plan places significant emphasis on the Greek language, the interconnection of Diaspora members, the digitalization and upgrading of consular services, as well as reaching out to the new Diaspora. Kyriakos Mitsotakis' government will continue to implement policies that will strengthen Hellenism's global presence at all levels.
January 27, 2024