Vasso Papandreou, Influential Greek Politician, Passes Away at 80

Vasso Papandreou, a prominent figure in Greek politics and a key member of the PASOK party, has passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Her death was announced on Thursday.

Born on December 9, 1944, in Valimitika, Aigio, Papandreou had a distinguished academic career, studying Economics at the Athens University of Economics and Business (formerly ASOEE). She furthered her education in the United Kingdom, earning a Master’s degree from the University of London and a PhD from the University of Reading. In addition to her studies, she held a teaching position at Oxford University.

Papandreou was a trailblazer in Greek politics, serving in various ministerial roles under the governments of Andreas Papandreou and Kostas Simitis. She made history as the first Greek European Commissioner, holding multiple significant portfolios, including Employment, Labour Relations, and Gender Equality from 1989 to 1993.

Her extensive political career included positions as the President of EOMMEX (1981-1985), Deputy Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology (1985-1987), and Minister of Development (1996-1999). She also served as Minister of Interior, Public Administration, and Decentralization (1999-2001), and Minister for the Environment, Spatial Planning, and Public Works (2001-2004).

Vasso Papandreou’s contributions to Greece’s political landscape and her commitment to public service will be remembered as a significant part of the nation’s history.