Dear Colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I am addressing this year’s Bali Democracy Forum.
I would like to congratulate Foreign Minister, Ms. Retno Marsudi for this praiseworthy and timely initiative.
Poverty constitutes a serious impediment in the fulfillment of human rights, leading to discrimination against the poor.
The last 30 years have seen a revival of the debate on human rights and poverty.
Particularly when combined with rising populism and the current COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbate inequalities.
Under these conditions, there is an increased risk of destabilization of the society and the state.
The ensuing insecurity threatens good governance and democracy itself.
Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen international cooperation and global partnerships for the accelerated implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development;
Especially Sustainable Development Goals 1 (on ending poverty in all its forms everywhere), 10 (on reducing inequalities) and
16 (on accountable institutions and inclusive and participatory decision-making).
Greece has been diligently working on projects aiming at alleviating disparities which undermine civil, political, as well as economic and social rights.
More specifically:
A National Strategy for Social Integration and Poverty Reduction has been elaborated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
Four other policy documents of major importance have been adopted:
• Our first National Action Plan on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
• Our first National Action Plan against Racism and Intolerance.
• Our first National Action Plan on the Rights of the Child.
• Our National Action Plan on Gender Equality.
Furthermore, a new National Roma Integration Strategy and Action Plan is currently being elaborated.
Being a strong supporter of democracy as a universal public good; and a strong promoter of the universal, indivisible and interdependent character of all human rights; Greece considers poverty as an “enemy” of both values and makes sound efforts to eradicate it.
This, by promoting equal opportunities and participation in society, as well as by encouraging dialogue, transparency and accountability in all aspects of life.
These efforts never stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Democracy and its institutions have continued to function and deliver, for the benefit of the Greek people as a whole.