The Technical Chamber of Greece – Central Macedonia Section (TCG/CMS – TEE/TKM), in collaboration with the Association of Architects with Diplomas from Tertiary Education Institutions – Panhellenic Architects’ Association (AADTE/PAA – SADAS/PEA) and the UIA Hellenic Section, successfully co-organised a three-day event in Thessaloniki, Greece, from 28 to 30 May 2025. The event was held under the dual themes of “Friendly & Inclusive Spaces” and the “UIA Region II Presidents’ Meeting.”
28 May: Thematic Conference & Exhibition Opening
The event commenced on 28 May with a thematic evening conference at the TEE/TKM amphitheatre. Distinguished speakers delivered insightful presentations on topics including:
Inclusion as a catalyst for new architectural ideas
The concept of ableism in architecture
Sustainable urban mobility for all
Barrier-free movement and accessibility as key components of quality of life
That same evening, the UIA Work Programme “Architecture for All (AfA)” travelling awards exhibition was inaugurated in the foyer of the amphitheatre. The AfA programme seeks to raise awareness among architects about the importance of accessibility and inclusive design in education, architectural practice, and construction. The exhibition highlights best practices in inclusive and accessible urban and architectural design worldwide.
29 May: UIA Region II Presidents’ Meeting
On 29 May, the UIA Region II Presidents’ Meeting took place at TEE/TKM’s “Engine-Habs Room.” The meeting was chaired by Jerzy Grochulski, UIA Vice President for Region II, and hosted at the invitation of Fani Vavili-Tsinika, President of the UIA Hellenic Section and UIA Council Member.
Greece welcomed in-person delegations and Presidents from Armenia, the Czech Republic, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Lebanon, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Member countries unable to attend physically participated online.
That evening, Mr Ilias Pertsinidis, President of TEE/TKM, hosted an official dinner in honour of the attending delegates and Presidents.
30 May: Cultural Visit & Farewell
On the final day, participants visited the archaeological site of Vergina, including the Palace of Aigai, the Royal Tombs, and the Polycentric Museum, accompanied by an archaeologist from the Greek Ministry of Culture.
The three-day event concluded with a farewell lunch offered to all delegates.
Read the official press release (in Greek) issued by TEE/TKM: http://bit.ly/3TQk49l.
