The management of the refugee and migration crisis in our country may be an important opportunity for us to regain our lost credibility. The major organizational steps that have been taken to provide relief on the islands from the huge wave of refugees, suggest that when the political will and a plan exist, then even the most difficult-to-handle problems may at least be controlled.
Greece and the other countries in the south are objectively Europe’s bastion against the waves of uprooted people who are trying to escape the storm that threatens them. To tackle this he problem they absolutely deserve the solidarity and assistance from other European countries. It is important that the efforts made are now being recognized by other countries with a prominent role in European affairs.
The statement made by Chancellor Merkel on Tuesday, that Greece and Italy which receive the bulk of refugees cannot be left helpless, is an important acknowledgment of the problem. As each day goes by it becomes increasingly clearer that the European asylum policy must change and that the countries must cooperate, in order to establish a common tactic.
Greece therefore has a unique opportunity to prove its major contribution and demand that Europe participates accordingly. It is also an opportunity to prove that we can operate as an organized and modern state which respects human life and rights, but also demands that its partner’s does the same.
The refugee and migration problem will unfortunately be with us for quite some time. However, this tragedy which tests the principles and values of Europe cannot just affect the individual states that are first to face the refugee wave. The whole civilized world must become involved, overcome its fears and prejudices and seek out the most realistic and efficient solutions.
TO VIMA
