Irini Barianaki

EU project manager at the South Aegean Region and the South Aegean Development Agency

I am an economist with a First Degree from the Department of Economic and Regional Development at Panteion University and a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Development from Harokopeio University. My academic focus on regional planning has led me to pursue further studies as a Ph.D. candidate at Panteion University, where my research thesis is titled “The Cultural Dimension of Maritime Spatial Planning.”

My research primarily examines the development of islands, focusing on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing environmental resilience, and addressing island communities' vulnerability to climate change's impacts. Furthermore, my research focuses on the role of sociocultural values in promoting sustainable development and resilience in island ecosystems, understanding that cultural identity and community engagement are critical components of effective adaptation strategies.

In recent years, I have managed EU projects on behalf of both the South Aegean Region and the South Aegean Development Agency in Rhodes, Greece, earning a valuable experience working on European Union-funded projects in the thematic area of sustainable tourism, climate change adaptation, and energy transition.