Those of us who know and are involved with the Greek diaspora have time and again stressed its incredible importance – this is not some theoretical claim, nor is it an exaggeration.
There is a greater Greece that is spread out across the globe, and which can and must be tapped into. Steps and efforts are being made to this end, but much more needs to be done. We need a comprehensive strategy that has cross-party support and a long-term horizon.
The Greek prime minister studied in Boston and has ties with the Greek-American community, as did some of his predecessors.
In terms of its influence in the political and economic ecosystems of the world’s biggest economy and strongest military power, there is no doubt that the most important part of the Greek diaspora is the Greek-American community. But it is obviously not the only one that matters.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis celebrated Greek Independence Day in Canada two years ago and is planning a trip to Australia for the same occasion this year. These are sage symbolic moves that serve the aim of creating a deeper connection with the diaspora even in the farthest corners of the Earth.
The Greek element is also strongly present in Europe, as we all know, and especially in its biggest and most influential countries – Germany, France and Italy – while in the case of the United Kingdom, the Greek-Cypriot presence is also very significant. It goes beyond Europe, America, Canada and Australia, however, stretching all the way to countries like South Africa, too.
As it deals with long-standing structural weaknesses and a burgeoning demographic crisis, Greece needs – and efforts are underway to achieve it – the return of many of those who left, including highly accomplished scientists, in what is known as a “brain gain.”
A well-organized diaspora working in harmony with Athens would make Greece better and stronger.
The decision to create a special electoral district for the Greek diaspora is a step in the right direction. The bill – which provides that expatriate voters will not cast ballots for the nationwide party list but will instead have their own ballot with candidates from around the world, allowing them to choose not only a party but, through a preference vote, their own members of parliament – should be discussed with sincerity and a willingness to reach common ground by all parties, and should become a point not merely of consensus but of shared commitment.
The relationship with the diaspora should not be influenced by party preferences. It has no ideological color. Strengthening ties with the millions of Greeks around the world is a national objective that transcends individuals and governments. We must make full use of this force multiplier for social, economic and geostrategic reasons.