The first female Minister for Foreign Affairs in Greece, serving from 2006 to 2009, known for her efforts to strengthen Greece's international relations and promote European integration.
Dora Bakoyannis is a Greek politician who made history by becoming the first female Mayor of Athens, as well as the first woman to serve as Mayor of a city hosting the Olympic Games. She also holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking female official in the Greek government, having served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2006 to 2009.
Born on May 6, 1954, in Athens, Greece, Bakoyannis hails from a prominent family of politicians. Her father, Konstantinos Mitsotakis, was a veteran Greek politician and former Prime Minister of Greece, while her grandfather, Kyriakos, and his brother Aristomenis, were also prominent politicians.
Bakoyannis' political career began in 1989 when she was elected to the Hellenic Parliament. She went on to serve as Minister for Culture of Greece from 1992 to 1993, and later became the Mayor of Athens from 2003 to 2006. Her term as Mayor saw significant improvements to the city's infrastructure, including the development of new transportation systems and public spaces.
In 2006, Bakoyannis became the Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position she held until 2009. During this time, she played a crucial role in promoting Greek diplomacy and strengthening the country's relationships with other nations. She also served as the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2009.
In 2010, Bakoyannis founded the Democratic Alliance, a political party that she led until 2012. Although she was expelled from the New Democracy party for voting against the party line, she rejoined New Democracy in 2012 ahead of the parliamentary election.
Bakoyannis has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to politics and diplomacy. These include the Grand Cross of the Order of the Phoenix, the highest civilian honor in Greece, as well as the Order of the Golden Ark, a Belgian honor awarded for her services to environmental protection.
Despite her many achievements, Bakoyannis remains committed to her family and personal life. She has been married to Isidoros Kouvelos since 1999 and has two children from a previous marriage. Her legacy as a trailblazing female politician continues to inspire women and girls around the world to pursue careers in politics and public service.
Born in 1907
A Greek lawyer and politician who served as President of Greece, known for leading the country's transition from military dictatorship to democracy. He's credited with modernizing Greece and joining the European Union.
Born in 1919
Greek economist and politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece, known for his socialist policies and efforts to reduce Greece's reliance on foreign capital. He also played a key role in Greece's accession to the European Union.
72 Years Old
A Greek sociologist and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Greece from 2009 to 2011, known for his efforts to address the country's debt crisis.
73 Years Old
The 185th Prime Minister of Greece, a key figure in the country's economic and political landscape, known for his leadership during the European sovereign-debt crisis. He implemented austerity measures to address Greece's financial woes.
67 Years Old
A prominent Greek politician who served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, known for his key role in shaping Greece's economic and foreign policy during a critical period.
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Greek engineer and politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece from 2015 to 2019, known for his efforts to restructure Greece's debt and implement progressive policies .
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Greek Prime Minister and banker, leading the country's economic recovery and implementing reforms to boost growth and stability. Known for his pro-business and liberal policies.
Born in 1883
A Greek philosopher, author, and playwright who explored the human condition through novels like "Zorba the Greek" and "The Last Temptation of Christ", delving into themes of spirituality, morality, and individualism.
