Young people of the Greek diaspora from 16 countries and four continents met for the first time in Athens, at the Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Center on 27-28 November 2024, at the 1st International Conference Greek Youth Diaspora Symposium, entitled “Diaspora Dialogues: Connecting Young Voices Around the World”, organized by the General Secretariat for Hellenism Abroad and Public Diplomacy.

The conference, which was institutionalized, for the first time, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the parallel evolving hospitality programs, aim to create a permanent platform for dialogue and cooperation among the youth of the Diaspora among themselves and with Greece, and will be a reference point for the youth of the Diaspora, emphasizing networking, cooperation and the promotion of their role in an ever-changing world.

During the Conference, the institution of Youth Diaspora Ambassadors – Young Ambassadors of the Greek Diaspora – was launched, whose mission will be to promote Greek culture and its values through specific actions and initiatives.

Seeking solutions for the future

The young participants had the opportunity to discuss issues of concern to their generation, such as cultural identity, arts and culture, professional development and the role of youth in shaping a more just and cohesive society. Distinguished personalities from the political, business, diplomatic and academic worlds contributed to the discussion, offering their expertise and knowledge.

The conference agenda was organized around four central themes:

1. 1. Cultural Identity and Heritage: Roots as a source of strength.
   2. Education and Careers: Bridges for professional development.
   3. Arts and Culture: Creation as a means of unity.
   4. Social cohesion: The role of young people in meeting the challenges of modern society.

The initiative is part of the Strategic Plan for Hellenes Abroad 2024-2027, which was recently presented at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The institutionalization of this new platform for dialogue for the new generation of the Greek diaspora confirms the commitment of the Greek government to strengthen relations with the Greek Diaspora and responds to contemporary challenges, such as the need to seek new ways of reconnecting Hellenism Abroad with its roots.