Stavros Lambrinidis, Greek lawyer and politician, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Greece

Stavros Lambrinidis: A Distinguished Career in European and International Diplomacy

Stavros Lambrinidis (Greek: Σταύρος Λαμπρινίδης; born on 6 February 1962) is a highly accomplished Greek lawyer and politician who has dedicated his career to public service, transitioning from legal practice to significant roles in both national Greek government and the highest echelons of European Union diplomacy. His extensive experience spans foreign affairs, human rights advocacy, and transatlantic relations, positioning him as a key figure in international policy.

Current Role: Ambassador of the European Union to the United States

Since March 2019, Stavros Lambrinidis has held the prestigious and pivotal diplomatic post of Ambassador of the European Union to the United States. In this critical capacity, he serves as the chief representative of the European Union's 27 member states in Washington, D.C. His overarching mandate involves strengthening the vital transatlantic relationship, which is a cornerstone of global stability and prosperity. This role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including fostering economic cooperation, advocating for common policy positions on issues such as climate change, trade, security, and digital governance, and engaging with U.S. government officials, Congress, civil society, and the private sector to advance EU interests and shared values.

Previous Key Roles and Contributions

• European Union Special Representative for Human Rights (2012 – 2019)

  Prior to his appointment as EU Ambassador to the U.S., Mr. Lambrinidis served with distinction as the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights from 2012 to 2019. This unique and influential position was established by the EU to give a clear, strong, and consistent voice to the Union's human rights policy across the globe. In this capacity, he actively promoted and protected human rights by engaging in high-level dialogues with governments worldwide, advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations, working with civil society organizations, and collaborating with international bodies like the United Nations. His work involved addressing a wide array of human rights issues, from freedom of expression and democratic principles to the abolition of the death penalty and the protection of minority rights, reinforcing the EU's commitment to these fundamental values as an integral part of its external actions.

• Minister for Foreign Affairs of Greece (June 2011 – November 2011)

  Before assuming his European Union-wide roles, Stavros Lambrinidis held a significant national ministerial position as the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Greece from June 2011 to November 2011. During his tenure, he was responsible for formulating and implementing Greece's foreign policy, representing the country in international forums, and managing its diplomatic relations with nations worldwide. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into the intricacies of national foreign policy decision-making and multilateral diplomacy, which undoubtedly informed his subsequent European and international assignments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stavros Lambrinidis

What is Stavros Lambrinidis' current role?

Stavros Lambrinidis currently serves as the Ambassador of the European Union to the United States, a position he has held since March 2019.

What was Stavros Lambrinidis' most recent role before becoming EU Ambassador to the US?

Before becoming the EU Ambassador to the US, Stavros Lambrinidis was the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights, a role he held from 2012 to 2019.

What is the significance of the EU Ambassador to the US role?

The EU Ambassador to the US leads the European Union's diplomatic mission in Washington, D.C., and is responsible for managing and strengthening the comprehensive relationship between the EU and the United States across various critical areas, including trade, security, foreign policy coordination, and shared democratic values.

What are the key responsibilities of an EU Special Representative for Human Rights?

An EU Special Representative for Human Rights works to enhance the effectiveness and visibility of the European Union's human rights policy globally. This involves engaging with governments, international organizations, and civil society to promote and protect human rights, advocating against abuses, and integrating human rights considerations into all aspects of the EU's external action.