Greek Foreign Policy Since 1974: Theory and Praxis

Abstract

This paper juxtaposes two schools of thought, in theory and practice, entitled respectively “multilateralist” and “unilateralist”. The “multilateralists” orientation tends to be Eurocentric whereas the unilateralists feel more comfortable with ethnocentricity. The former emphasize economic and political variables in addition to military ones.The latter recommend reliance on power – military- alone. The author concludes that the multilateralist paradigm has become dominant in recent years but he feels that the re has been a useful synthesis of aspects of both schools of thought.

The author also concludes that the prognosis for Greece’s Western profile is solid and secure given that the Greek socialists have unequivocally adopted a pro-EU and pro-NATO policy while the Conservative opposition’s stance has been and continues to be enthusiastically pro-Western. Unfortunately., the situation in neighboring Turkey appears much more fluid and less likely to sustain a strong government that will have the necessary backing to move decisively toward a policy of genuine reconciliation with Greece.