Racism in Greece, Mytilene

The dialogue on the peaceful coexistence of people in modern multicultural societies is particularly relevant today, as it coincides with the tragic events of September 11^th in New York, which shook the planet and brought to the forefront social behaviors related to the demonization of entire groups of populations.

Racism, an extension of the real contradiction observed in the modern world between the weakened form of the nation-state and globalization, poses a threat but also a challenge for every democratic society.

At the UN World Conference against Racism and Xenophobia held from August 31 to September 7 in Durban, South Africa, the proceedings ended in failure for the third consecutive time following the dual withdrawal of the US and Israel, prompted by the request of Palestinians and Arabs to condemn Zionism. Unfortunately, the dynamism of the rising movement of non-governmental organizations, which sought a sincere dialogue to address and prevent discrimination and inequalities as effectively as possible both now and in the future, did not lead to a Declaration of the inalienable individual rights of those citizens who reject unjustified divisions in their own homelands as well as in the rest of the world.

Today, ideologies reemerge with audacity, under which millions of human lives were sacrificed. A climate of intolerance towards diversity, hatred, and hostility towards migrants and refugees is being created by certain circles, posing a serious threat not only to social cohesion but also to democracy and peace itself. Moreover, these theories appear renewed and enriched, as they do not confine themselves to the framework of known racist ideology, but include culture, religion, and the promotion of racial, linguistic, and religious purity and authentic cultural identity.

Thus, the foreigner, one who has a different religion, nationality, or culture, is demonized and turned into a scapegoat. And in many cases, the foreigner is not only the outsider but also the “other,” the different one, the heretic.

It is a fact that the phenomena of racism, xenophobia, and intolerance have taken on explosive dimensions in recent years, even in countries with a long democratic tradition. One of the great contradictions characterizing our time is, on one hand, globalization and the emphasis on human rights, and on the other, the reproduction and intensification of social inequalities.

In Greece, while the phenomena of racism and xenophobia may not occur with the same frequency and intensity as in other places, over the last decade, coinciding with the collapse of the Eastern bloc and the increase in immigration flows, a wave of prejudices has begun to emerge, and racist violence has become increasingly frequent.

What recently happened in the Baths of Mytilene is neither unprecedented nor unique in our wonderful new world. Worse events have occurred in Europe, such as in El Ejido, Spain, about a year ago, where there was a collective uprising against all migrants after one of them killed a local. There was also the case in Dover, Britain, where 68 Chinese undocumented migrants met a horrific death inside a refrigerated truck.

In seeking the causes that favor the development of racist and xenophobic phenomena, we discover their complexity. They are linked to a series of economic and social problems such as unemployment, poverty, the exclusion of social groups, insecurity, ignorance, and the disintegration of cities, among others. Furthermore, we observe that the rise of individualism, low educational levels, and uncertainty about the future make individuals vulnerable to racist-type prejudices and receptive to xenophobic demagoguery.

Thus, in the consciousness of a large portion of public opinion, aided by the media, the perception has taken root that the foreigner is responsible for unemployment, high crime rates, and the deterioration of life, particularly in large cities. Meanwhile, in many social strata, the impression is created that foreigners exploit the services of their own welfare state, which reinforces racist attitudes towards them, despite the fact that, with few exceptions, migrants have very limited rights and opportunities for social advancement.

The responsibility of the State and political leadership is evident. However, it is our duty to contribute meaningfully to the meeting of cultures in our region, to create democratic channels of communication and cooperation, and in an era when migration flows also affect our country, to help create an open and modern Greek society that respects the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens, regardless of social or national origin, gender, race, or religious belief.

Certainly, the role of the media remains significant, as they are called to help combat prejudices by highlighting diversity and revealing the beauty of the multiculturalism and pluralism of modern societies.

Unfortunately, it is often observed that in the case of criminal actions, especially by electronic media, the nationality of the perpetrators is emphasized, creating impressions of personal or social threat from migrants. The separation of migrant crime from general crime and its dramatization gives the impression that there is a specific behavior among migrants regarding this issue. In contrast, the positive aspects of their presence and contribution to the development of our country are rarely highlighted.

And yet, research and studies have shown that migrants and refugees not only do not contribute to rising unemployment but, on the contrary, represent a positive factor in the economy that often leads to job creation and economic development. These conclusions have been particularly validated in the USA, Canada, and Australia, countries with a long tradition of welcoming migrants.

Furthermore, we need to evaluate the contribution of migrants and refugees to enriching our culture with the different languages and cultures that bring new dynamism to our own and can promote cooperation and exchanges with their countries of origin. Therefore, it is worth viewing the multiculturalism of modern societies from a perspective that highlights its positive and creative elements.

The need for positive initiatives against discrimination certainly pertains to all areas and spheres of politics. Respect for diversity and the recognition of the right to difference are hallmarks of developed societies and integrated democracies. Therefore, the effective tackling of racist phenomena, the defense of human rights, and democratic freedoms are integral parts of European identity.

To this end, a series of measures and programs have been adopted, including the ongoing discussion in the European Parliament regarding the drafting of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, which will legally enshrine the rights of all those residing in the territory of the European Union, regardless of gender, race, religion, color, or national origin, as mandated by the Amsterdam Treaty. At the same time, it will contribute to the adoption of a collective understanding of values and principles, as well as a common system of fundamental rights.

The experiences of Europe, particularly the Balkans, from the terrible wars and conflicts of the 20th century highlighted the dangers that racism, xenophobia, and nationalism pose to peace and human dignity. For this reason, the international community and the member countries of the European Union have strengthened the legal mechanisms they have against racism in recent years.

The establishment of the values of humanity and universalism in society, the promotion of respect for diversity and the “other,” must be a steadfast goal of the actions not only of the government and political parties but also of the educational system and all actors that influence public opinion. The activation of everyone is necessary. As long as we remain silent and consent to racist beliefs and practices, we all share a portion of the responsibility. A social life without a basic acceptance of diversity and the legitimacy of the other’s existence is not possible. Tolerance is a positive way of life, a confirmation of our identity through the acceptance of the identity of the other, and a necessary condition for the peaceful coexistence of people.

Dear friends,

Awareness and clear thinking are required in the face of racism, intolerance, nationalism, and religious fanaticism. The society we hand over to future generations must be more democratic and humane, ensuring equality of rights and obligations for all.

Because, as Umberto Eco said in an interview with a Greek journalist, “Whether we like it or not, Europe will become a multi-ethnic and colorful continent. Without being a futurist, one can predict that in the next millennium, the Eurocentric model will cease to be dominant. No nostalgic individual from the past and no racist can prevent the great mixing and interbreeding of populations.”

It is therefore worth viewing the multiculturalism of modern societies from a perspective that highlights its positive and creative elements.