Horizontal policies to strengthen ties with the Greek Diaspora
Consistency between words and actions, is a quality that characterizes the Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as was recognized by the Greek citizens in the two elections in May and June. In line, therefore, with his commitment to strengthen the voice of Greeks abroad, the New Democracy Government has actively paved the way for their civic participation, lifting voting restrictions with Law 5044/2023. This initiative is just the beginning of a broader policy.
As a country, we are fortunate to have a large and vibrant Diaspora. Greeks abroad operate and excel in many fields, while preserving and promoting our language, traditions, and cultural legacy. It is essential to remember the principles and values we share – principles deeply rooted in Hellenism -such as democracy, human rights protection, respect for international law as well as the need for peaceful settlement of disputes. Additionally, Greeks abroad take prompt action and influence policy decisions in their respective countries of residence in favour of our country. They act as ambassadors of our messages, forming a solid basis for the maintenance and strengthening of the bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between Greece and these countries and, ultimately, achieving significant benefits for our country.
The bond between Greece and its Diaspora is and should be a two-way relationship. In this regard, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is drawing up a three-year horizontal strategy for the Greek Diaspora, in full compliance with its relevant constitutional mandate.
Horizontal actions are drawn up, with an emphasis on fortifying the shared elements that bind together the Greeks globally: dissemination of the Greek language, education, culture, support for the Church, and reaching out to the new Diaspora. It is undeniable that for these relations to truly thrive, long-term strategic planning and a structured framework for open communication with the Greek Diaspora are pivotal.
Simultaneously, in the upcoming period, the digitalization of procedures of our consular authorities will be completed, aiming at upgrading the services provided to Greeks abroad and improving their daily life. Specifically, a novel, digital request-management service comprising the digital submission of requests and required documents, as well as the digital review of requests by consular staff, will be introduced. This initiative is one of many in the field of state digitization and personalized services for Greeks living abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already integrated cutting-edge tools, such as the Citizens' Registry, for the direct registration of foreign civil status by the Consular Authorities, the "Virtual Assistant", interacting with citizens by answering questions on consular issues employing artificial intelligence, as well as the "MyConsulLive" service, offering remote assistance to citizens via video call. In addition, following a cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Digital Governance, a new section has been launched on gov.gr concerning services available to Greeks abroad. Upcoming projects include a digital platform for the Greek Diaspora, an upgrade to the digital platform staellinika.com for teaching Greek language and culture, and increased support for university chairs dedicated to Greek studies.
Strengthening ties with Greeks abroad, providing continuous support, and promoting their interests have always been priorities for the Greek state. Under the leadership of Minister George Gerapetritis, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is committed to achieving the aforementioned goals, within a cohesive and targeted framework.
October 30, 2023