The next day in Europe will unfortunately not be the same as today, as the Europe that we have known until now. The latest blind terrorist attack in Brussels – let us not forget that it is the center of Europe – signals an unavoidable clash with Islamic fundamentalists on all levels.
However much one may not want to sacrifice their values, way of life and freedom in the name of this conflict, it is clear that the issue of security is now paramount.
European culture has been hurt by the massacre in Brussels. Of course the response of European institutions and member-state government towards the threat of terrorism will be decisive. We know, however, that the financial crisis and management of the refugee crisis have nurtured many negative, xenophobic and nationalist reflexes. The bolstering of such extreme views is almost a given.
In spite of the criticism against Europe, it remains the most democratic, open and advance – socially, institutionally and culturally – section of the world. It is no coincidence that other the victims of terrorism, the refugees, choose Europe to escape the terror, insecurity and fanaticism of their fellow believers and compatriots.
The new terrorist attack make it very difficult, if not impossible, to manage the refugee crisis. The open borders and open society we knew until now will not e the same tomorrow. The refugees in Idomeni already know this. Unfortunately those will are yet to come to our country will also find out.
Greece is already experiencing the consequences of the refugee crisis and will soon be face with even greater challenges. Government well wishing and general appeals to humanism are not enough to address them. The government officers who have treated the crisis almost as new commentators cannot and must carry on with the same tune.
In order for the country not to turn into an endless ghetto of abandoned refugees and illegal migrants, decisive actions, a plan and common national front are needed. First though the bailout review must quickly conclude, so that we are not faced with financial instability and uncertainty. The government’s populism, demagogy and introversion that dominated public life must now give way to consensus, dialog and a common national strategy.
TO VIMA
