Immense attention has been paid to the financial aspects of the economic crisis in Southern Europe, but little has been said about its relation to the political process. The conference brings together scholars with expertise in the politics of one or more of the countries of Southern Europe currently experiencing the effects of economic crisis and austerity. It aims at fostering a better understanding of the political aspects of the ongoing crisis in Southern Europe that have gone comparatively neglected, at least in Cyprus, and at illuminating larger questions about the challenges and developments that lie ahead. Particular emphasis will be placed on the aspects of representation and participation, the way they have been affected by the crisis and their importance as fundamental aspects of democratic governance.