Founded in 1996, PADEE-WHIA is an international organization of legislators of Hellenic descent who have been elected to parliaments outside Greece and Cyprus. Its primary mission is to serve as a bridge between its members and the Hellenic Parliament, promote issues of national importance to Greece within international decision-making bodies, and support the preservation and promotion of the Greek language and culture worldwide.
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Since its establishment, the Association has brought together parliamentarians, senators, and political leaders of Hellenic heritage from across the globe, strengthening the bonds of Hellenism and promoting the enduring values of democracy, freedom, and international cooperation.
Over the past thirty years, PADEE-WHIA has evolved into a unique international network of representatives of the Greek diaspora, providing a respected forum for dialogue and the exchange of ideas among elected officials serving in the legislatures of their respective countries while maintaining strong ties to their Greek heritage.
Through its global assemblies, conferences, and working meetings, the Association has contributed to advancing issues of concern to Hellenes worldwide, strengthening relations among Greece, Cyprus, and Greek communities abroad, and highlighting the contributions of the Greek diaspora to the societies in which they live and serve.
The year 2026 marks a significant milestone for PADEE-WHIA as it celebrates 30 years of uninterrupted presence and activity. The anniversary celebrations will culminate on July 22, 2026, in Athens with a special commemorative event expected to bring together distinguished figures from the political, academic, and diaspora communities from many countries around the world, honoring the Association’s journey and its contribution to global Hellenism.
Having had the privilege of collaborating with PADEE-WHIA and following its activities throughout Greece, documenting important moments of its journey through photographs and videos, Hellenic DNA extends its warmest congratulations on the occasion of its 30th anniversary.
We wish the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association continued success in carrying out its mission with the same dedication, dynamism, and commitment, and many more decades of service to Hellenism worldwide.
We also extend our best wishes to all parliamentarians, senators, and political leaders of Hellenic descent who participate in PADEE-WHIA. May they continue to enjoy good health, strength, and success as they work to strengthen the bonds of Hellenism in every corner of the world and promote the enduring values of democracy, freedom, peace, and international cooperation.
Special congratulations are extended to the President of the World Hellenic Inter-Parliamentary Association (PADEE-WHIA), Rhode Island State Senator Lou Raptakis. We thank him for his longstanding service to Hellenism worldwide and wish him continued good health, strength, and every success in advancing his important work.
Happy 30th Anniversary to PADEE-WHIA. May it continue to thrive and remain a beacon of unity, cooperation, and service for future generations of Hellenes around the world.
