Diplomacy in a World in Flux
In an era marked by profound political, economic, social, and technological transformations, the practice of diplomacy is becoming increasingly complex, demanding, and multifaceted. Against this constantly evolving international backdrop, the Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center for Public and Humanitarian Service of Anatolia American University is organizing an open public discussion on contemporary diplomatic practice, bringing together on the same panel career diplomats currently serving in Thessaloniki. The event will take place on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, from 11:00 to 13:30, at the Mediterranean Palace Hotel in Thessaloniki.
For the first time, Consuls General and Consuls representing Albania, Bulgaria, France, Germany and Romania will share with the public their experience in diplomacy and consular affairs, present their professional journeys, and discuss the knowledge, skills, and challenges that shape the role of the contemporary diplomat. Through open dialogue, participants will have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how diplomacy is practiced today in a rapidly changing international environment.
At a time when war, migration flows, economic uncertainty, technological developments, and shifting geopolitical balances are reshaping Europe and the wider region, diplomacy is no longer a process unfolding exclusively behind closed doors, but a daily practice with a direct impact on societies and citizens.
The joint presence of consular representatives from Albania, Bulgaria, France, Germany and Romania further highlights Thessaloniki’s distinctive role as a meeting point between Greece, Southeast Europe, the European Union, and the Mediterranean. At the same time, it sheds light on the human and practical dimension of diplomacy: protecting citizens, building trust, and managing complex challenges in times of uncertainty.
Through this initiative, the Dukakis Center consistently advances its mission of strengthening active civic engagement in the public sphere and fostering greater public understanding of diplomacy and the international issues of our time.
The event is addressed to young people interested in politics, international relations, and international law, as well as to the wider public of Thessaloniki. Its aim is to bring diplomacy closer to society by offering a unique opportunity for direct interaction with professionals in the field and meaningful engagement with contemporary international developments.
The event will be conducted in English.
Speakers (in alphabetical order by country)
- Erida Dobrushi, Consul General of Albania
- Anton Markov, Consul General of Bulgaria
- Jean-Luc Lavaud, Consul General of France and Director of the French Institute of Thessaloniki
- Mark Strohmenger, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul of Germany
- Corina Crețu, Consul General of Romania
Coordination – Commentary
- Dr. Theodoros Theodorou, Ambassador a.h., Senior Advisor, Foreign Affairs Institute
- Dr. Christos Aliprantis, Associate Professor and Executive Director, Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center for Public and Humanitarian Service, Anatolia American University
Program
Time session
11:00-11:10: Welcome Remarks
11:10-11:55: 1st panel. Erida Dobrushi, Consul General of Albania, Anton Markov, Consul General of Bulgaria, Corina Crețu, Consul General of Romania
11:55-12:10: Discussion with the audience
12:10-12:25: Coffee Break
12:25-12:55: 2nd panel. Jean-Luc Lavaud, Consul General of France-Director of the French Institute of Thessaloniki Mark Strohmenger, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul of Germany.
13:25-13:30: Discussion with the audience
13:25 – 13:30: Closing Remarks
Further information: Christos Aliprantis, Tel.: +30 2310 398227
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
