Pioneering PASOK figure Vasso Papandreou passes away

·

Vasso Papandreou, one of the founding members of the socialist PASOK party, and a former European commissioner, minister, and MP, has passed away at the age of 79.

    Reports suggest that she had been struggling with health issues in recent months.

    Papandreou was best known for her advocacy of women’s rights and was notably the first woman to represent Greece as a commissioner in the European Union, then the European Economic Community. She also championed social welfare and disability rights.

    Exiled during the military dictatorship from 1969 to 1973, she became one of the founding members of PASOK upon her return to Greece. She went on to serve in the party’s central committee and held several cabinet positions in the governments of Andreas Papandreou (no relation).

    In 1989, she was appointed as the European Commissioner responsible for employment, industrial relations, and social affairs.

    Under Costas Simitis, between 1996 and 2004, she held senior posts at the Ministries of Economic Development, Interior, and Environment and Public Works.

    She also served as an MP for Athens’ First Constituency, being elected to Parliament in 1993, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2007, and 2009. However, she was removed from PASOK’s parliamentary group in 2012.

    Papandreou will be laid to rest on Saturday in her hometown of Valimitika, in Aigio, located in the northern Peloponnese.

    Source: Ekathimerini.

    Advertisement

    Share:

    KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

    By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

    Advertisement

    Latest News

    Cypriot courage remembered: Join the ANZAC Day March, keep their legacy alive 

    On Anzac Day we commemorate the bravery and good deeds of Australian, New Zealand and Allied forces over many conflicts.

    Orthodox Mission in Madagascar uplifted by Australian generosity

    As Bishop Theophilos prepares to return to Madagascar, he issued a statement expressing his deep gratitude for the support and affection.

    Aaron Zerefos Enterprises acquires Fresco Beverages 

    Aaron Zerefos has announced the acquisition of the Fresco Beverages business, enhancing his hold on the Australian drink distribution market. 

    Feros Group to take over premier waterfront venue in Darling Harbour

    The Feros Group has announced they now own and operate the iconic Helm Bar & Bistro in Sydney's Darling Harbour.

    Peter Mamouzelos aims to play in Greece as rugby league grows

    Peter Mamouzelos has expressed his ambition to play rugby league in Greece, a goal that has been hindered in the past due to the sport's ban.

    You May Also Like

    Greece’s Olympic water polo team secures win over Montenegro

    Greece's national water polo team defeated Montenegro in the penalties on Wednesday, July 31 with a score of 17-16.

    Senators introduce legislation to bolster US defense partnership with Greece

    US Senator Bob Menendez and US Senator Marco Rubio introduced new legislation to bolster the United States’ defense partnership with Greece.

    Vasilis Vasilas is set to officially launch his new book, ‘Little Athens: Marrickville’

    Vasilis Vasilas is set to officially launch his new book Little Athens: Marrickville on Sunday, May 9 at the Marrickville Town Hall at 4pm.