These days a hard game of poker is being played between the powerful in Europe and the democratically elected Greek government, which is seeking out a solution to its financial problem beyond the bailout. The Greek government is essentially disputing the economic policy model that has been setting things in the Old Continent for the past couple decades.
The European officials and the dominant German political class that guides them are reacting against the Greek dispute and are barricading themselves behind the founding principles of the Eurozone and the rules of international financial behavior and by using money as a weapon they demand compliance and submission.
Up to now Mr. Tsipras and Mr. Varoufakis have not managed to find the levels of understanding they desired in their many meetings and contacts in the European capitals and Eurozone centers.
They may have heard good words, been congratulated, but when the discussions turned to serious matters, they were faced with denial and threats.
Neither the invocation of European democratic ideal, nor the humanitarian crisis moved the European grey suits, which saw the neck-tie-lacking Greeks as hosts of dangerous beliefs and theories.
According to their morals and ideals, all we deserve is fasting and repentance. And if we do not submit quickly, within the next ten days, then we must be prepared to face a credit crunch, restrictions on withdrawing money and financial exhaustion.
Schauble and Merkel have left no room, Draghi implemented their orders and is prepared to be the first one to take off our oxygen mask. Puny, pitiful leaders, such as Hollande and Renzi, are close behind, hiding in Merkel’s skirts and pretending to be foolish virgins.
Let us not even talk about the refined in Brussels, who are all hugs and kisses, but are really building walls to protect their self-indulgent lives.
The Americans too, who at first went to say something, coordinated with them as soon as they realized that what is being said here does not comply with their beliefs and understandings.
The way international relations are at the moment, it seems that Tsipras and his government will be under immense pressure from the European vice to accept a compromising solution.
The Greek people though felt better, waves of pride and optimism overwhelmed most, despite the hardship that everyone knows may come.
More importantly though, the seed of doubt has been disseminated everywhere.
The neoliberal model of inequalities and constant retreat of the work force against capital – especially speculative capital – is no longer defensible.
Without a doubt the political pendulum is beginning to swing in Europe and world again, Anyone who cannot see it is simply turning a blind eye. Stay tuned for more…
Antonis Karakousis
Originally published in the Sunday print edition
