Climate Justice in EU Policy

1) What led you to European politics? Was there a decisive moment in your career that led you to this level of commitment?

My decision to enter European politics stemmed from a profound sense of responsibility. As a meteorologist, I witnessed firsthand the alarming acceleration of climate phenomena—floods, wildfires, prolonged droughts—that disproportionately affect working people and vulnerable communities. There was a decisive moment during a summer of catastrophic wildfires followed by horrific floods in Greece when I realized that raising awareness was no longer enough. I needed to contribute at the legislative level, to help craft policies that protect people, not just observe patterns.

2) What are your priorities within these committees?

My priorities are firmly rooted in social and environmental justice. In the Environment, Fisheries, and Agriculture Committees—as well as the Regional Development Committee (REGI) and the European Parliament’s delegation to China—I focus on policies that support sustainable farming, protect marine biodiversity, and ensure that rural and peripheral communities are not left behind in the green transition. It’s crucial that we transform our agricultural and fisheries sectors in a way that is equitable and participatory. Through REGI, I advocate for cohesion policies that promote climate resilience and social inclusion across all regions. And through the EU-China delegation, I emphasize the need for constructive international dialogue on sustainability. The green transition must be an opportunity for inclusive growth, not further inequality.

3) Do you believe European cooperation is strong enough to meet the climate crisis?

European cooperation has made strides, but we still fall short of the unity and ambition needed. Climate change does not respect borders. We need more solidarity between Member States, especially to support countries and regions facing the brunt of the crisis. We must reinforce EU civil protection, share resources, and accelerate the deployment of climate-resilient infrastructure through shared funding. As a socialist, I believe cooperation should be grounded in fairness and mutual support, not just efficiency.

4) What concrete measures is the Union putting in place to stay on track with the Paris Agreement goals?

The EU has made significant progress with the Green Deal and the 'Fit for 55' package. These include expanding renewables, improving energy efficiency, and reforming emissions trading. However, these policies must go hand in hand with strong social protections. Carbon neutrality cannot be achieved on the backs of workers and low-income households. We need binding commitments and transparent enforcement mechanisms to ensure climate targets are met without increasing inequality.

5) To what extent is climate skepticism reflected in EU action?

Climate skepticism remains a challenge, especially as disinformation spreads—now increasingly amplified by AI-driven bots that flood digital platforms with misleading or false narratives. This misinformation not only distorts public understanding but also threatens the foundations of science-based policymaking. Unfortunately, it sometimes results in delayed or weakened legislation. We must confront this skepticism with facts, but also with empathy. Many people fear the economic impacts of climate policies. That’s why EU action must be framed not just as a moral imperative but as a path to secure jobs, clean air, and energy independence. Legislating in favor of the climate should never mean legislating against people.

6) Do you believe the €65 billion Social Climate Fund is sufficient?

The Social Climate Fund is a step in the right direction, but it's not enough. The scale of transformation needed requires robust public investment. We must use this fund to protect those most exposed to energy poverty, but also to create new green jobs and improve public transport. As socialists, we insist that no one should have to choose between heating their home and feeding their family. The fund should be expanded and better targeted.

7) Can the EU guarantee its energy supply while meeting its climate targets?

Yes, but only if we work together strategically. We must invest massively in renewable energy, strengthen interconnections between Member States, and ensure public ownership or control where needed to guarantee affordable access. I remain cautious about nuclear energy due to waste and safety concerns, but recognize its role in some national strategies. Ultimately, energy should be a common good, not a commodity driven by speculation.

8) How can the EU finance 'climate resilience' in vulnerable regions?

The EU must prioritize funding to regions that are already facing the impacts of climate change, such as Mediterranean cities. I advocate for stronger cohesion funding with climate adaptation criteria, direct support for municipalities, and the creation of a permanent EU Climate Adaptation Fund. Local authorities need the means to act, and communities must be empowered to shape their resilience plans. Climate resilience is social resilience.

9) What are the main sources of marine pollution in Greece, and what actions are being taken?

Greece’s marine ecosystems are under pressure from plastic waste, untreated sewage, overfishing, and heavy maritime traffic. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive provides a solid foundation, but enforcement must be strengthened. Unfortunately, the prolonged economic crisis in Greece pushed environmental protection—and especially marine conservation—down the political agenda for many years. Critical investments were delayed, and oversight was weakened. Today, we are working to reverse that legacy. We’re expanding monitoring programs, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and pushing for stricter controls on pollutants. Protecting our seas is both an environmental and economic imperative—our coastal communities, their livelihoods, and our national biodiversity depend on it.

10) How can the EU meet its mineral demand without harming marine ecosystems?

We must exhaust all land-based and circular economy options before even considering deep-sea mining. Recycling, product redesign, and urban mining can reduce our dependence on new extraction. Where minerals are essential, strict environmental and social criteria must apply. Our seas are not a mine—they are a shared heritage. As a socialist, I believe technological advancement must never come at the cost of ecological collapse.

11) How can the EU influence international negotiations on deep-sea mining?

The EU has the political and economic clout to set international standards. We must lead by example: supporting a moratorium on deep-sea mining, investing in marine science, and conditioning trade agreements on sustainability. By speaking with one voice, the EU can protect marine biodiversity and promote a global shift toward responsible, equitable resource use.