Greece’s New President Is a Game-Changing Environmentalist
Greece has just made history by electing its first-ever female president—and she’s not just a first in gender, but a leader with a powerful environmental vision. Katerina Sakellaropoulou, a high court judge and human rights advocate, was elected by an overwhelming majority in the Greek parliament. She’s broken gender barriers throughout her career and is now leading Greece into a new, greener era.
A Trailblazer in the Courts and Beyond
Sakellaropoulou has had a career packed with firsts. She was the first woman to lead the Council of State, Greece’s top administrative court, after being appointed with unanimous support. Her career includes key roles in the Association of Judiciary Functionaries of the Council of State, where she served as general secretary, vice-president, and twice as president. From 1985 to the early 2000s, she held positions that shattered glass ceilings left and right.
Massive Support Across the Board
The parliamentary vote wasn’t even close. Out of 300 MPs, 261 backed her election—way more than the 200 required by Greece’s constitution. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said her election is “a window to the future,” adding that this is a turning point for Greece. In fact, an MRB poll released just before the election found that 55% of Greeks supported her presidency.
Not Your Average Politician
Sakellaropoulou isn’t affiliated with any political party, but she’s a powerhouse in her own right. She’s widely respected for her progressive views on human rights and her commitment to environmental protection. Her advocacy for sustainable development isn’t just lip service; she’s a regular contributor to academic journals and even co-authored the book Financial Crisis and Environmental Protection on the Case Law of the Council of State.
A President for the People—and the Planet
As the first female and independent president, Sakellaropoulou’s leadership reflects a new era for Greece, one focused on equality, sustainability, and human rights. So, if you’re keeping an eye on leaders pushing for a greener future, Katerina Sakellaropoulou just put Greece on the map.