It is not the first time that violent acts are carried out in Greek universities. The extent of what happened though on the day of the student elections was unprecedented. In 11 cities and almost 40 university schools, we had invasions and violent clashes with hooded thugs, whose only aim was to use violence in a show of strength. We are perhaps the only country in the world, definitely the only on in Europe, where violence is endemic in higher education.
From areas of academic freedom and the circulation of ideas, the universities have long become places to freely act violently. This, in fact, is tolerated by a portion of the students, as well as the political system and society in general. In the name of asylum and a no-holds-barred ideological and political conflict, the violent clashes escaped the “systemic” factions, giving free range to various extremist groups, who believe that they are carrying out their revolution this way.
The crisis that we have been experiencing in recent years has offered up another alibi, since the tolerance towards such phenomena and practices has increased. The demonstration of strength over the past few days unfortunately illustrates how these groups have expanded their power and ability to coordinate, since there is greater tolerance for their actions, to the point where even the police avoids intervening when it can.
Some have confused the right to circulate ideas with their imposition by any means, while ignoring even the threat of human lives being lost. This absurdity must end before we find ourselves faced with uncontrollable situations. The state has a duty and responsibility to demand the respect of the law and Constitution, just like the academic community and students have an obligation to stop universities from being breeding grounds of violence.
It is absurd and deeply undemocratic for a small minority to violently oppress and bully the area of education, without being isolated.
TO VIMA
