To Megali Idea-Dead or Alive? The Domestic Determinants of Greek Foreign Policy

This book discusses "To Megali idea", or the "Great Idea," which is at the origin of modem Greek nationalism. The "Idea" was to regain lands which formerly belonged to the Greek empire. The current Greek government's official line disavows any expansionist views, but the "Idea" has never really died. In amplification of this Idea and its ramifications, the origin and character of Greek nationalism are examined, especially as they pertain to the formation of Greek foreign policy. The problems of minorities within Greece, the Greek diaspora and the influence of the Greek Orthodox Church on foreign policy issues are also analyzed. The findings aid in a greater understanding of Greek foreign policy both in today's Balkan crisis and in Greece's ongoing conflict with Turkey, as well as illuminating the potential for Greece's involvement in future Balkan crises. Many of the conclusions presented in this book were based on primary language research and interviews throughout mainland Greece and eighteen of the major islands, from September through November 1993. National elections which brought to power a socialist Prime Minister were held during October 1993, amid much rhetoric and international debate over questions of an "independent" Macedonia and minorities in Northern Epirus.