Constantinos Alexandris
A seasoned diplomat and recognized expert in religious diplomacy with over two decades of experience shaping international relations and fostering interfaith dialogue. Currently serving as an Expert on Religious Diplomacy at the European External Action Service in Brussels, I combine deep diplomatic expertise with specialized knowledge in religious affairs and cross-cultural understanding.
Professional Journey
My diplomatic career spans critical positions across European institutions, where I’ve consistently delivered breakthrough initiatives in the complex intersection of international relations and religious affairs.
2020 – Present
Expert on Religious Diplomacy
European External Action Service, Brussels
- Lead architect of the EU’s enhanced strategy for engagement with religious actors in foreign policy
- Established groundbreaking dialogue mechanisms between European institutions and diverse faith communities
- Advise on religious dimensions of international conflicts and cooperation opportunities
2015 – 2020
Secretary General for Public Diplomacy, Religious and Consular Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Greece
- Orchestrated high-profile interfaith initiatives involving Orthodox, Catholic, Muslim, and Jewish leaders
- Developed comprehensive public diplomacy strategies enhancing Greece’s international standing
- Managed crisis response to refugee challenges through coordinated interfaith cooperation
2012 – 2015
Director, Urgent Humanitarian Aid Division
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Greece
- Coordinated multi-million euro humanitarian missions across conflict zones
- Pioneered collaborative frameworks between government agencies and faith-based organizations
- Recognized with national distinction for response coordination during Middle East crisis
2008 – 2012
Diplomatic Representative
Greek Embassy in Turkey
- Facilitated breakthrough dialogue between Orthodox and Muslim religious authorities
- Negotiated improved access protections for religious heritage sites
- Established lasting relationships with key religious and political stakeholders
“Constantinos represents the ideal bridge between formal diplomacy and religious understanding. His work has created pathways for dialogue where traditional approaches have failed.”
Areas of Expertise
Religious Diplomacy
Specialized knowledge in engaging religious actors in diplomatic processes and leveraging faith-based connections for conflict resolution.
Interfaith Dialogue
Expert facilitation of meaningful exchanges between diverse religious traditions, with particular focus on Christian-Muslim relations.
Public Diplomacy Strategy
Development of comprehensive approaches to enhance national and institutional reputation through strategic communication and engagement.
Cross-Cultural Communication
Proven ability to bridge cultural and religious divides through nuanced understanding of diverse worldviews and values.
European-Middle Eastern Relations
Deep expertise in the complex dynamics between European institutions and Middle Eastern countries, with particular focus on religious dimensions.
Diplomatic Crisis Management
Skilled negotiator and mediator in high-stakes situations, with ability to find common ground among diverse stakeholders.
Key Achievements
- Architected the landmark “Athens Declaration on Religious Pluralism and Peaceful Coexistence” (2018), signed by 27 religious leaders representing major world faiths
- Established the first permanent interfaith advisory council to the European External Action Service (2021)
- Led diplomatic initiative resulting in protected access agreement for religious pilgrimage sites in disputed territories (2019)
- Recipient of the Order of Merit for Distinguished Diplomatic Service (2016)
- Keynote speaker at the UN Conference on Religion and Sustainable Development Goals (2022)
Publications & Research
“Religious Diplomacy: The Forgotten Dimension of Foreign Policy”
Journal of International Relations and Diplomacy, Vol. 43, Issue 2, 2023
Comprehensive analysis of how religious engagement can enhance traditional diplomatic approaches, featuring case studies from European initiatives.
“Interfaith Dialogue as Conflict Prevention: Lessons from the Mediterranean”
European Foreign Affairs Review, Special Issue on Cultural Diplomacy, 2021
Examination of successful interfaith initiatives in reducing tensions in Mediterranean conflict zones.
Contributing Author: “Handbook of Religion and International Relations”
Oxford University Press, 2020
Authored chapter on “Religious Actors in European Foreign Policy” examining the evolving role of faith communities in EU external relations.
Media & Engagements
Featured Expert, BBC World Service
“The Role of Religious Leaders in International Diplomacy” – September 2023
Panel Moderator, World Economic Forum
“Faith and Diplomacy in a Fractured World” – Davos, January 2022
Keynote Speaker, Georgetown University
Annual Conference on Religion, Diplomacy and International Relations – March 2023
Education & Training
- PhD in International Relations, University of Athens, 2005
- Master’s in Diplomatic Studies, Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, 1999
- Advanced Certificate in Religious Studies, Hellenic Open University, 2010
- Graduate, Diplomatic Academy of Greece, 1998
Languages
Fluent in Greek, English, French, and Turkish. Working proficiency in Arabic.
Contact Me
My unique blend of experience in both high-level diplomacy and religious affairs makes me an invaluable voice in today’s complex international landscape. Whether seeking expertise in religious diplomacy, international relations consulting, or strategic diplomatic guidance, I bring depth, insight, and proven success to every engagement.
For speaking engagements, consulting inquiries, or media interviews, please reach out via:
- Email: in@constantinosalexandris.com
- LinkedIn: Constantinos Alexandris
- Office: European External Action Service, Brussels