| | Since the road to full equality between men and women is long, quotas are needed as a necessary administrative measure for women to participate in decision-making centers. Significant steps have already been taken. There are now female prime ministers, with many more to follow. Thus, it does not seem like a distant dream for a woman to become prime minister in our country as well. MEP Anna Karamanou answers 20 questions regarding her contribution to the fight against the stoning to death of the Nigerian mother. Human Rights: How well are they protected in Europe? More than in any other region of the planet. There is always room for improvement. Is the West to blame for Africa’s lack of progress? Is it not our tolerance of a global system that produces inequalities and condemns two-thirds of the world’s population to underdevelopment and poverty? A belated reaction? Are you referring to the media? Better late than never… Every day, clitoridectomies are performed. What are we doing about it? Ask those in power who uphold barbaric traditions over the rule of law and the human rights of women. We denounce, protest, submit resolutions, fight, and at times we are vindicated, as happened with the Nigerian woman. Have Greek women even gained respect for their rights? We have achieved a lot, but the road to full equality is long. Just 50 years ago, we won the right to vote. A strong man as a stepping stone for a woman? The opposite is often the case. The saying goes that behind every strong man… Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Personally, I have not encountered such a man so far. Is “settling” the primary concern of women? There are still supporters of the old school. However, most women today are not satisfied with traditional recipes. Wife, mother, grandmother, and politician. Does quantity reduce quality? Husband, father, grandfather, politician; is there a problem? Should the compatibility of private and public life also apply to women? A woman prime minister in our country. A distant dream? Not so distant anymore. We already have several female prime ministers, with many more to come. In 2000, 61.2% of those who graduated were female. Meritocracy favors women. Muslim minorities in Greece. Are they treated on equal terms? A lot has been done, but even more is needed. The Muslim mosque in Attica remains on paper. Abolishing Religious Studies in our schools? It would be more beneficial to teach religious studies, that is, the study of all religions. Islam. Does it breed terrorists? Islamic fundamentalism does yes. Islam does not. Death penalty. It is still in effect in some states in America… Unfortunately… And they insist on teaching lessons about democracy and respect for human rights to others… Quota for women in decision-making centers. Imposition of our peers by force? Yes, when the obvious is not understood. A necessary, transitional, administrative measure, as taught by the more economically and socially developed countries—the Scandinavian ones. I heard you say that if the decision for the stoning of the Nigerian woman who was raped is not revoked, you will propose to the European Parliament to suspend economic aid to that country. Is Europe doing her a favor or does it have economic interests? Colonialism has long since ended. Do not underestimate the humanitarian dimension of European policy and the solidarity towards African countries. Mutual interest, of course, is the only healthy basis for good cooperation. Political refugees. Until when will they remain in tents? Until we decide to give up a part of our prosperity and comfort for the children of a lesser god. How will you convince your colleagues in Europe that the migration problem is also theirs? MEPs have been convinced. There is a problem of communication and a common approach within the Council that makes the decisions, that is, within the governments of the EU. |
