The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) has published its 2025 Annual Report, outlining the organization’s policy initiatives, advocacy work, and community engagement over the past year, as it enters a new chapter following its historic 50th anniversary.

According to the report, the Institute remained focused on its founding mission of advancing the rule of law, while working to strengthen relations between the United States, Greece, and the Cyprus. It also emphasized continued advocacy for religious freedom for the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and efforts to ensure that U.S. policy in the Eastern Mediterranean reflects democratic values, accountability, and long-term strategic interests.

The report notes that throughout 2025 the Institute maintained active engagement on Capitol Hill, within the U.S. administration, with allied governments abroad, and across the Greek-American community, positioning itself as a policy-driven voice in Washington.

Legislative advocacy and Eastern Mediterranean security

A key focus of AHI’s work during the year was foreign policy advocacy related to the Eastern Mediterranean. Through written testimony, meetings with members of Congress, and legislative initiatives, the Institute sought to ensure that U.S. policy supports trusted regional partners while holding destabilizing actors accountable.

One of the report’s central highlights is AHI’s role in initiating and advancing American-Hellenic-Israeli Eastern Mediterranean Counterterrorism and Maritime Security Partnership Act of 2025.

The bipartisan bill aims to further institutionalize the “3+1” partnership between the United States, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, strengthening cooperation on counterterrorism and maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Although the legislation was not enacted in 2025, several of its provisions gained traction and were incorporated into legislation considered by the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs, signaling growing bipartisan recognition of the region’s strategic importance.

Engagement with governments and diplomatic leaders

Beyond Congress, AHI said it maintained senior-level engagement with the executive branch, the United States Department of State, and diplomatic and defense leaders in Washington, Athens, and Cyprus.

According to the report, these discussions reinforced the Institute’s role as a bridge between policy communities and the Greek-American diaspora, contributing perspectives on regional security, democracy, and energy cooperation.

Forums and dialogue on regional stability

During the year, the Institute also organized high-level policy forums and briefings focused on issues such as security, democracy, energy, and regional stability.

These included discussions with Greek and Cypriot ambassadors in Washington, a major forum in Athens featuring the newly confirmed U.S. ambassador to Greece, and the annual Oxi Day Forum, which examined democratic resilience during times of crisis.

Leadership development and education

The report also highlights the work of the American Hellenic Institute Foundation, particularly its 17th Annual College Student Foreign Policy Trip.

Over a 20-day program across Washington, Cyprus, and Greece, students met policymakers, diplomats, military leaders, and civil society representatives, gaining first-hand insight into international affairs and public policy.

According to AHI, alumni of the program have gone on to careers in government, law, defense, and international relations, contributing to a growing network of Greek-American leaders.

Major philanthropic support

The Foundation’s activities were further strengthened in 2025 by two major donations totaling more than $1.4 million, reflecting strong support for its educational and policy initiatives.

The report expresses gratitude to James Lagos, chairman of AHI, and his wife Nike Lagos, as well as the estate of E. John Rumpakis, for their significant contributions.

Community engagement and public recognition

Community outreach remained a central part of AHI’s work, including participation in Greek Independence Day events at the White House and on Capitol Hill and broader diaspora initiatives.

The Institute’s flagship event, the 51st Annual Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National Public Service Awards Dinner, honored individuals and institutions whose leadership reflects the values of democracy, service, and Hellenism.

Looking ahead to 2026

Looking ahead, the Institute says it will continue advocating for policies that strengthen stability and democratic cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean, including renewed efforts to advance the American-Hellenic-Israeli Eastern Mediterranean Counterterrorism and Maritime Security Partnership Act.

The report concludes that while challenges in the region remain significant, AHI and the American Hellenic Institute Foundation remain committed to promoting principled advocacy, the rule of law, and stronger ties between the United States, Greece, and Cyprus.