The LSE Centre for Research on Contemporary Greece and Cyprus was established in 2024, evolving from the original Hellenic Observatory, thanks to the generous contribution of a number of our donors. The Centre is one of the few social science research centres worldwide dedicated to the study of contemporary Greece and Cyprus. It is led by the holder of the Eleftherios Venizelos Chair on Contemporary Greek Studies, the first chair established outside Greece in this field.
Structured around three broad disciplinary clusters (Politics & Geopolitics, Economy & Public Policy, and Society, Identity & Rights), the Centre aims at advancing world-leading scholarship on contemporary Greece and Cyprus across the social sciences, drawing on the expertise of a large team of senior LSE academics and external Research Associates; as well as on strategic collaborations with research institutes and public bodies in Greece and Cyprus. Its research expands on the work done at the Hellenic Observatory on issues of governance, international relations and the labour market, opening up to new issues and key societal and policy challenges along three thematic priorities concerning Gender and the position of women in Greek/Cypriot economy and society; Growth strategies, digital transformation and the green transition; and Citizenship, civic engagement and the State. The Centre also incorporates LSE’s Research Group on Southeast Europe (LSEE), reflecting its ongoing interest in the wider region of which Greece and Cyprus are a part.
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In parallel, the new Centre will continue its activities in other remits that have been historically associated with the Hellenic Observatory in its roles as research facilitator, nurturer of young talent and as a platform for public dialogue and the promotion of the study of Greece and Cyprus internationally – including through its programme of high-profile public lectures in London, Cyprus and Greece, its research seminar series, its discussion papers series, its Greece@LSE blog, its programme of external research calls, its biennial PhD Symposium, and much more. In this regard, the Centre’s work includes both primary research aimed at academic audiences and situating Greece and Cyprus within international academic debates; and research translation for broader knowledge exchange and policy impact, maintaining a non-partisan approach to facilitate genuine debate among academics, the public, and policy practitioners.
Our vision for the new HO Centre blends its rich history with its promising future, reflecting the following core principles:
- Independence: The Centre's research and activities are grounded in a non-partisan approach, facilitating genuine debate among academics, the public, and practitioners.
- Excellence: The Centre produces world-class, high-quality research and publications within the social sciences focused on Greece and Cyprus, reflecting LSE’s global excellence.
- Impact: The Centre promotes research and knowledge exchange that is translated into actionable insights influencing policy and effecting positive change.
- Education: The Centre supports and encourages a new generation of scholars with specialist knowledge and postgraduate training.
- Public Engagement: The Centre facilitates informed public debate by organising academic and policy lectures, panel discussions, seminars, and workshops ensuring that our research resonates beyond academia.
- Networking & Collaborations: The Centre fosters cooperation and encourages research synergies among academic communities in Greece, Cyprus, the UK, and beyond.