Global Council President Nikos Kastrinakis: “Our vision is to turn the power of Cretans ev
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
“The values of Crete are not represented by reckless driving, alcohol misuse, or irresponsible gun ownership,” stresses the President of the World Council of Cretans, Nikos Kastrinakis, speaking to Neos Kosmos in the wake of the recent deadly vendetta that shocked the island.
What drives him, he says, is simple.
“Our vision and compass are to translate the strength of Cretans everywhere into meaningful work.”
Work for Crete, and for the Cretan federations and associations across Greece and the global diaspora.
But vision alone is not enough. “For that vision to bear fruit, we need action,” Kastrinakis emphasises. These actions, he explains, centre on three pillars: the next generation, culture, and collaboration.
“Our greatest power lies in ‘all together’,” he says. “And when I say ‘all together’, I don’t just mean the members of the World Council of Cretans, but public authorities, institutions, and Cretans across the world. Our responsibility is to inspire, to propose solutions, and to implement them, not to complain.”
What the World Council of Cretans does
Founded in 2003, the World Council of Cretans brings together major Cretan federations across the globe, including Australia and New Zealand, North America, Europe, Athens, Macedonia, Piraeus and South Africa. Its key mission is to safeguard Cretan history, culture, and values, and ensure they are passed on to younger generations wherever they live.
The Council plays a dual role:
- Uniting the diaspora to address shared challenges, especially how future generations can maintain Greek and Cretan identity.
- Supporting Crete itself, with an unwavering commitment to the island’s wellbeing and future.
“We want the next generation to carry forward our heritage our language, history, ethics and culture,” Kastrinakis says. “With the right programs, small investments can have quick, tangible impact.”
The role of the Diaspora in national issues
Kastrinakis sees the diaspora as a vital force in national advocacy.
“We must be united, organised and ready. We must understand the national lines as defined by the governments of Greece and Cyprus. And we must promote our country, not just its products and traditions, but the modern culture of today’s Greece.
“If any action threatens our rights, we must respond immediately and collectively, especially in decision-making centres in the US, Australia and Europe.”
He believes maintaining identity is the diaspora’s greatest challenge, and he remains optimistic.
“Our programs are experiential, modern, concise and meaningful. The Greek language is important, but we must not exclude those who do not speak it well. Cultural programs often encourage language learning later. Only active, ongoing programs can preserve identity.”
The three major challenges facing Crete today
Kastrinakis highlights three urgent issues the island must confront: Road safety and infrastructure.
The Council has launched the ongoing “A Life Campaign” against road fatalities. “Progress has been made, but more must be done.”
“Public works must move faster so Crete can keep pace with its development.”
Cretan values, global change and geopolitics
“We must not lose our humanity, the very thing that defines us.”
He adds that Crete’s greatest wound is failing to take advantage of its vast opportunities. “Irresponsible driving, alcohol abuse and gun misuse do not reflect who we are.”
Commenting on international instability and the influence of political leaders like Donald Trump, he says:
“We must monitor developments constantly and be ready to negotiate, knowing our strengths and weaknesses — and those of others.”
Kastrinakis will consider his tenure successful if federations strengthen their ties with each other and with Crete, more programs for youth are implemented, collaborations yield concrete results and Crete gains more opportunities and choices.
“Our responsibility is to leave the Council stronger than we found it,” he says, acknowledging the contribution of past administrations.
A transformative experience abroad
Kastrinakis reflects on his own formative experience as a 21-year-old student in the US.
“If I had a magic wand, I would send every young person to live abroad for four or five months. You return with a deep understanding of Greece’s worth, of Crete’s value, and of the opportunities we often leave unused.”
He believes reversing Greece’s brain drain hinges on two key reforms: reducing bureaucracy through rapid digital upgrades and simpler investment-friendly frameworks, and fixing the justice system so accountability is swift and reliable. Without these, he warns, “the economy stands on glass legs” and real brain gain cannot be achieved.
Authentic Crete
“Visit the small, authentic villages — where warmth, generosity and problem-solving thrive even in difficult moments. These experiences stay with you forever.”
The next major event for the World Council of Cretans will take place in Chania from 23–26 July 2026, under the theme “Crete and the Cretans of Today and Tomorrow.”
The conference will include four thematic days:
- Diaspora, Economy & Development
- Climate Crisis & Environment
- Education & Culture
- Inclusion, Social Responsibility & Volunteerism
A key innovation: Every speaker will be required to present at least one concrete solution, not just analysis. Each day will feature panels, discussions, cultural events and community activities.
“We are all very excited,” Kastrinakis says. “This conference will offer immense value to all Cretans — and above all, to Crete.”
As President of the US branch of the Eleftherios Venizelos National Research Foundation, Kastrinakis highlights its global influence.
Recent lectures — including at Georgetown University and the Maritime College in New York — have shaped discourse on international law, Greek history and geopolitics.
“It is a great honour to serve this institution and to collaborate with remarkable members of the diaspora,” he says.
The original article: belongs to NEOS KOSMOS .
