Since her first appearance in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in 2000, Dora Bakoyannis (Greece, Group of the European People’s Party) has played a pivotal role, holding several key positions that underscore her influence and leadership within the Assembly. Acknowledging her deep understanding of political nuances and her unwavering commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across the continent, different political entities, including the Assembly, the European People’s Party and the Hellenic Parliament have entrusted her with leading roles throughout the years. Notably, she was active as Vice-President of the Assembly, Chairperson of the Greek delegation to the Assembly and Chairperson of the Committee on Political Affairs and Democracy.
Among the numerous reports she has authored on behalf of the Assembly, notable examples include her report in the Committee on the Honouring of Obligations and Commitments (Monitoring) regarding the respect of human rights in the Russia Federation (2012-2013), and her report in the Committee on Political Affairs and Democracy concerning the application by Kosovo* for membership in the Council of Europe (2023-ongoing).
Dora Bakoyannis is a liberal politician with a profound belief in the European Idea. She is internationally recognized for her firm stance against terrorism, intolerance, and absolutism. Her positions have been widely published in the international press, and she has been a keynote speaker at dozens of conferences, academic forums, and debates around the world.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ opinion on Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
The project “75 women in 75 years of Council of Europe history” is organised by the Delegation of the European Union to the Council of Europe with the Council of Europe and the Permanent Representations of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
