As the world navigates significant changes, shifting alliances, and critical developments – such as the evolving transatlantic relationship, the potential resolution of the war in Ukraine, and the fragile situation in Gaza – Greece has a unique opportunity to strengthen its role as a reliable and responsible global actor. As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the next two years, Greece can play an active role in promoting international stability and contributing to high-level decision-making. This term is more than just a diplomatic milestone, it is a defining moment for the country’s role on the global stage. Next week, Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis will be in New York to officially mark the beginning of Greece’s tenure on the Security Council, ushering in a pivotal chapter in the country’s diplomatic engagement.
From day one, Greece has taken on this important role with a strong sense of responsibility, actively shaping discussions, decisions, and initiatives on global peace and security. One of its first major moves was playing a key role in securing the renewal of the UN Peacekeeping Force’s mandate in Cyprus. In a unanimous adoption, the Security Council extended the mission’s mandate for another year, reaffirming its commitment to stability on the island.
In another significant step toward international security, Greece joined the US as a co-penholder on a critical resolution aimed at stabilizing Yemen and the wider Red Sea region. This marks a major success, placing Greece at the heart of global decision-making on maritime security. For the first time in 20 years, Greece has introduced a UNSC resolution, something it has not done since its last term on the Council in 2005-2006. This resolution tackled a top priority for Greece, maritime security, an issue vital not just for shipping nations like Greece but for global trade and economic stability.
As a co-penholder alongside the United States, Greece took on a leadership role in shaping the global conversation on maritime security. The resolution underscores the importance of protecting international waters, ensuring safe trade routes, and safeguarding the global supply chain, especially in regions like the Red Sea, where recent security threats have jeopardized global commerce. Greece, as a maritime powerhouse, saw an urgent need for a strong UN response. Behind the scenes, Greece navigated a complex web of negotiations, balancing competing interests, addressing concerns from key players, and ensuring broad support for the final text. Ultimately, Greece succeeded in bringing all members on board, a testament to its growing diplomatic influence. Beyond these early initiatives, Greece has engaged in discussions on major issues, including conflicts in Congo, Colombia, Sudan, and Haiti.
Looking ahead, Greece has outlined clear priorities for its term. One primary focus is the peaceful settlement of disputes, emphasizing the resolution of international conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, in line with the principles of the UN Charter. Greece is also a strong advocate for upholding international law and the principles enshrined in the UN framework.
Another key priority is the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. Greece is committed to ensuring women’s equal representation in decision-making processes, particularly in peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts. Climate change is also a major focus, with Greece recognizing the security risks it poses. The country supports integrating environmental concerns into the Security Council’s work and backs the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda.
Maritime security remains at the forefront, with Greece leveraging its long coastline and maritime heritage to promote the safety of international shipping routes and counter maritime threats. Additionally, Greece is committed to protecting children in conflict zones, aiming to prevent violence and ensure accountability for violations.
Greece is approaching its role on the Security Council with a clear strategy, balancing diplomacy, international law, and active engagement to address major geopolitical challenges, including the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
Regarding the war in Gaza, Greece is expected to use its role to reinforce the importance of a permanent peace through a lasting ceasefire, reaffirm support for a two-state solution, engage with key regional actors to prevent further escalation, and emphasize the need to protect civilians on both sides.
On Ukraine, Greece has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, aligning with its EU partners in condemning Russia’s invasion. However, with President Trump’s stated intention to end the war, uncertainty looms, and no one can predict what comes next. In this fluid landscape, Greece remains on high alert, ready to adapt to rapidly evolving developments
Also as a Security Council member, Greece is positioning itself as a bridge-builder, leveraging its diplomatic ties in Europe, the Middle East, and the Balkans to foster dialogue and cooperation. By emphasizing international law, multilateralism, and conflict resolution, Greece aims to play a constructive role in shaping global decisions.
In May 2025, Greece will assume the rotating presidency of the Security Council, providing a unique opportunity to shape the global agenda for a month. This will be a chance to reinforce its commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and democracy, core principles guiding its Security Council term. Expect Greece to spotlight its key priorities, from peacebuilding and maritime security to climate change and the protection of vulnerable populations in conflict zones. Maritime security will be a dominant issue, with Greece using its expertise to highlight key principles of international law and the law of the sea, among other critical topics.
Greece’s tenure on the Security Council is a remarkable opportunity to showcase its diplomatic expertise and its role as a stabilizing force globally. At a time of global instability, Greece is demonstrating its diplomatic leadership, contributing actively to solutions for pressing international challenges.
Additionally, its Security Council seat will significantly enrich Greece’s foreign service, allowing its diplomats in New York, Athens, and various missions worldwide to deepen their expertise and engage daily with the most demanding issues of international peace and security.