One of the things that I like to do before I go to another country is not only do research about their language, history, culture, cuisine (of course), but I also want to find out how public relations works. This summer, I will be spending a week at a research conference in Athens, Greece (with a quick stop-over in Munich– woo hoo!) So, one my goals during my trip is to make PR contacts and learn about how PR is operated in Greece.
When you think of Greece, what comes to your mind first? Well, I would definitely say their history and being the birthplace of philosophy, and their amazing landmarks (ex. Acropolis, Parthenon Temple, etc.) Greece is also known for their music, arts, and cuisine! Baklava is definitely a dish that the Greeks are well-known for. Dad’s recipe is just beyond divine! So yummy! 🙂
So, here is a little background information about Public Relations in Greece. It appears that Public Relations in Greece started nearly 60 years ago, and there are about thirteen Public Relations agencies in the country. It also appears that Public Relations is still in development in the university system. For example, it seems that universities in Greece offer classes in the following subjects, but not necessarily in Public Relations specifically (“PRSIC Website“):
- Business Law and Mass Communication Media
- Intercultural Communication
- Designing Interactive Applications
- Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
- Internal Communication Strategy
- Internet and Training
- Political Economy and Communication
- Electronic Journalism
- Web Site Design
- Special Themes of Multimedia Communication
- History of Art
- Applied Project
Wow, there are a lot of different classes in communications to choose from! From web site design to negotiation and conflict resolution (my guess is that this would be crisis communication / crisis management in the United States) to electronic journalism. One trend that I do see in this list is that Greece appears to be embracing new technologies to apply with communication, journalism, and the public relations disciplines. Very innovative! 🙂
So in many ways, there are numerous of opportunities for scholars and PR professionals to establish a presence in PR education in Greece. It seems that Greece is incorporating more applied skills into the classroom in their communications classes. 🙂 It will be very exciting to see how Public Relations in Greece evolves and develops in time. 🙂
Hope you all are having a great day! 🙂
Best Wishes,
Karen
Reference
Scuro, E. Public Relations in Greece. Retrieved on January 26, 2009 from http://www.prssa.org/prsic/greece.aspx.
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