Anna Diamantopoulou
Anna Diamantopoulou was born 26 February 1959 in Kozani, Greece. She is President of the Greek think tank "TO DIKTIO" and former Minister of Education. She is also a former European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities in the Prodi Commission.
Biography
Anna Diamantopoulou started her career in 1984, as the youngest Prefect of Local Administration. Two years later she was appointed Secretary for Adult Education, then Secretary for Youth. Afterwards she served as President of the Hellenic Organization of Small and Medium-Sized Undertakings and Handicrafts (EOMMEX). After being elected as Member of Parliament for the district of Kozani and for the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) she was appointed deputy Minister for Development in charge of Privatization and Industrial Restructuring. From 1999 to 2004, she served as European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, and Equal Opportunities. From 2007 to 2009, she served as Greek Shadow Minister of Education, then was appointed Greek Minister for Education, Lifelong Learning, and Religious Affairs in 2009 till 2012. Afterwards, she served as Greek Minister for Development, Competitiveness, and Shipping. Anna Diamantopoulou also served as member of the Board of Trustees of Friends of Europe since 2005 and member of the Board of NotreEurope since 2006, as well as Chairperson of the Party of European Socialists’ Committee on the European Dimension of New Social Europe.
Education
Anna Diamantopoulou graduated from the Aristoteleion University of Thessaloniki and the Panteion University with a degree in Civil Engineering and Regional Development.
Special Achivements
She is the author of a book called 'Exipni Ellada' (Intelligent Greece) which outlines the need for innovation, goal-oriented endeavours and professional approaches as the key prerequisites for social and economic progress. Diamantopoulou declares herself a firm believer in Greece's ability to join the frontrunning countries in the knowledge economy by 2020. A champion of women's issues and a staunch supporter of stronger, more competitive Europe, Anna Diamantopoulou continuously stresses the importance of balancing economic efficiency with social justice. She is among the most prominent political personalities of Europe.
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External Links and References
http://www.culturaldiplomacy.org/academy/index.php?The-Hon-Anna-Diamantopoulou
