“3rd Ioannis Kapodistrias Forum, on his Anniversary” Webinar Panel Discussion

Join us for the East Mediterranean Business Culture Alliance’s/ EMBCA’s “3rd Ioannis Kapodistrias Forum, on his Anniversary” Webinar Panel Discussion on Sunday, February, 9, 2025 at 2 P.M. EST/ 9 P.M. Athens EEST. The event will be introduced and moderated by Lou Katsos, EMBCA's President /Founder. The distinguished panel will include Georgios Mamalos Deputy Regional Governor of the Ionian Islands; Dr. Meletis E. Meletopoulos; Peter Stavranidis, PhD; Award Winning Film Director / Screenwriter Giannis Smaragdis who is preparing a national film on the life and work of Ioannis Kapodistrias; and Jimmy DeMetro, President Emeritus of The Hellenic Film Society USA.

Ioannis Kapodistrias (2/11/1776–10/9/1831) remains one of Hellas’s most revered figures, celebrated for his dedication to diplomacy, governance, and the revival of the Hellenic state. Born in the year of the American Declaration of Independence in Corfu during Venetian rule, he gained a solid education in law and medicine, which later underpinned his diplomatic career. He began his political journey in the Ionian Islands, where he served in administrative positions under French and then British rule and which exposure honed his skills in governance and diplomacy. He rose to international prominence as a skilled statesman in the service of the Russian Empire, notably becoming Russia’s Foreign Minister and later as the Russian Ambassador to the Italian states.

His diplomatic efforts were pivotal during the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent Congress of Vienna (1814–1815). Kapodistrias’s moderate approach played a significant role in shaping Europe’s postwar balance, particularly in advocating leniency toward France to prevent its fragmentation. His diplomatic acumen influenced the final settlements, ensuring France (which to this day has not properly honored him) remained a cohesive and integral state within the European framework. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, Kapodistrias contributed to the stabilization of postwar Europe and reinforced his reputation as a proponent of diplomacy and equilibrium during a pivotal moment in European history that earned him the respect of his contemporaries.

Geneva became another significant chapter in Kapodistrias' life. Following his Russian diplomatic career, he settled in Geneva and engaged in intellectual pursuits. His time in this Swiss city saw him contributing to political thought and international affairs. Kapodistrias, drawing upon his extensive background in governance and diplomacy, offered valuable perspectives that influenced discussions on constitutional matters in Geneva. His ideas on governance, statecraft, and the balance of power left an enduring and lasting mark on the shaping of the Swiss constitution. While Kapodistrias is often celebrated for his role in Hellenic history, his influence on the Swiss constitutional landscape underscores the breadth of his impact on political thought beyond the borders of his homeland. His experiences in Geneva provided a platform for him to reflect on governance and statecraft, which would later influence his role in shaping the nascent Hellenic state.

Kapodistrias’s legacy for Hellenes is most deeply connected to his role as the first head of state of independent Hellas following the War of Independence against Ottoman rule (1821–1830). Kapodistrias’ diplomatic prowess was evident in his efforts to secure Hellenic independence during a tumultuous era. He navigated the complex European political landscape to garner support for the Hellenic cause. His diplomatic endeavors culminated in the Protocol of St. Petersburg in 1826, which recognized Hellas as an autonomous, albeit still Ottoman vassal, state. This diplomatic success laid the groundwork for the subsequent establishment of the independent Hellenic state.

As the first Governor of Hellas (1827-1831) in a war-torn and fragmented land, Kapodistrias faced the Herculean task of nation-building. His administrative reforms aimed at modernizing the Hellenic state and ensuring its viability. He introduced a centralized administrative system, reorganized the military, and implemented economic policies to stabilize the nation. Notable achievements included founding schools, reforming agricultural practices, establishing the Hellenic National Bank, and introducing the phoenix as the country’s first currency. Kapodistrias's legacy extends beyond the realm of governance, encompassing cultural and educational contributions. He recognized the importance of education in forging a national identity and which helped establish the University of Athens in 1837, an institution that played a pivotal role in nurturing intellectual and cultural development, contributing significantly to the resurgence of Hellenic national consciousness.

However, Kapodistrias faced significant challenges. His centralizing policies alienated regional elites and warlords accustomed to local power and autonomy. Despite his best efforts to unify Hellas, his progressive reforms met resistance from vested interests. His tenure was marked by internal conflicts, reflecting the growing pains of a nascent state struggling with unity and sovereignty.

On October 9, 1831, Kapodistrias was assassinated by political rivals, cutting short his vision for Greece’s future. His death was a tragic loss for the young state, which descended into chaos before eventual partial stabilization under a monarchy. His death highlighted the struggle between centralization and regional autonomy, a tension that would persist in Hellenic politics for years to come.

Despite his challenges and untimely death, Kapodistrias’s legacy endures as a symbol of selfless leadership and patriotism. His contributions to both European diplomacy and the foundation of modern Hellas are celebrated to this day. Kapodistrias is remembered as a visionary whose life exemplified commitment to peace, national unity, and progress, making him a cornerstone of Hellenic history. Join us as we discuss the legacy of this great international statesman- Ioannis Kapodistrias as well as the National movie being prepared on him on the Anniversary of his birth who if had he lived and not been assassinated would have made Hellas a completely different and more modern country today.

EMBCA is an organization exempt from Federal Income Tax under Internal Revenue (IRC) Section 501(c)(3), classified as a public charity, and qualifies to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under Section 2055, 2106, or 2522 . Donors can deduct contributions they make under IRC Section 170. Thank you all again for your continuing enthusiasm and support of our events !!