Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria

Presenter: Aris Gounaris
Entry: Free

This seminar will explore the theme of national self-determination and will seek to answer some topical questions including: Should all nations have their own states? Was Kosovo's secession from Serbia justified? Is there a Macedonian nation? Do the demands of national minorities pose a threat to Greece and to other Balkan states?

Biography

Aris Gounaris has a PhD in philosophy and history from La Trobe University.

His thesis, Self-determination and Secession: A Remedial Rights Approach, examines the theory and practice of national self-determination with particular emphasis on the separatist conflicts in Kosovo, Chechnya and Aceh. Dr Gounaris has contributed to the ongoing debate about national self-determination through refereed publications, opinion pieces and public seminars.

While working on his thesis, Dr Gounaris delivered lectures on: Nationalism in the Balkans; Greece and Yugoslavia under Nazi Occupation; Imperial Russia; and Napoleon as part of La Trobe University's Modern European History program.

He also tutored in history and philosophy. Dr Gounaris is a Commonwealth public servant. He will present his views in a private capacity.