Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research

Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research. It is a prominent Greek think tank specializing in applied economic research and policy analysis. Founded in the late 1970s, it has played a significant role in shaping public debate on economic development and structural reform in Greece. The foundation is known for its independent, evidence-based studies on the Greek economy and its integration within the European Union.

History

The institute was established in 1977 by economist Lucas Papademos, who later served as Prime Minister of Greece. Its creation occurred during a period of transition following the fall of the Greek military junta of 1967–1974, as the country sought to modernize its institutions. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, its work focused on Greece's accession to the European Economic Community and subsequent challenges of European integration. During the Greek government-debt crisis, it provided critical analysis and policy proposals, advising successive governments and engaging with international institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank.

Research and publications

The foundation's research portfolio covers macroeconomics, sectoral studies, and regional development, with major publications including the quarterly "Greek Economy" report and the "Annual Report on the Greek Economy". It conducts in-depth studies on competitiveness, the labor market, and the banking sector, often in collaboration with entities like the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the World Bank. Its analyses of privatization programs, energy policy, and the impact of the Common Agricultural Policy are widely cited in Greek media and academic circles, such as the University of Athens.

Organizational structure

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes leading academics, former government officials, and business leaders from companies like Hellenic Petroleum and the National Bank of Greece. Research is conducted through dedicated departments focusing on areas such as International Economics and Social Policy. It maintains a permanent staff of researchers and economists, while also fostering a network of affiliated experts from institutions like the Athens University of Economics and Business and the London School of Economics.

Key people

Notable figures associated with the foundation include its founder, Lucas Papademos, and long-time director Yannis Stournaras, who later served as Governor of the Bank of Greece. Other influential members have included economist Nicholas Garganas, a former governor of the Bank of Greece, and Panagiotis Liargovas, a professor at the University of Peloponnese. The board has also included prominent industrialists like Spiros Latsis and former Minister for National Economy Stefanos Manos.

Influence and impact

The foundation has exerted considerable influence on Greek economic policy, particularly during negotiations for bailout agreements with the European Commission and the European Stability Mechanism. Its proposals on tax reform, pension system sustainability, and public administration have been integrated into national legislation. The think tank regularly testifies before committees of the Hellenic Parliament and its work is referenced by major media outlets like Kathimerini and Skai TV. It is consistently ranked among the top think tanks in the region by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program.

Category:Research institutes in Greece Category:Think tanks based in Greece Category:Organizations based in Athens Category:Economic research institutes