Greece and the Economic Challenges Ahead: A Conversation with Greek Opposition Leader Alexis Tsipras

On January 22, Global Economy and Development at Brookings hosted Alexis Tsipras, the leader of the Greek opposition, for a conversation about Greece and the economic challenges ahead. Tsipras’ remarks touched on themes including: economic and social prospects for his own country; the relationship between Athens and the rest of Europe, including what reforms are needed in Greece and Europe to address the crisis; and what role, if any, the U.S. can play in assisting Greece and Europe tackle their current problems.

Alexis Tsipras is the leader of the SYRIZA coalition. Both Mr. Tsipras and the SYRIZA coalition have been vocal opponents of European austerity measures in response to the euro crisis. Those positions have led to a surge in public support for both the SYRIZA coalition and for Mr. Tsipras personally, placing either at, or near, the top in various Greek opinion surveys in recent months. Mr. Tsipras is the youngest person ever to lead the official-opposition party in the Greek Parliament.

Brookings Managing Director William Antholis provided introductory remarks and, with Brookings Senior Fellow Domenico Lombardi, moderated the discussion with Alexis Tsipras, including questions from the audience.