By Paige Hoblak (Contributor) – Email
Print Edition: February 29, 2012
As if the world didn’t see enough global protests in 2011, citizens of Greece remind us that 2012 may be no different.
Greece has entered their fifth year of economic turmoil and their current position has only worsened with a second bailout by the International Monetary Fund and the European Union. Riots have been taking place across Greece—particularly in Athens—as a result of the harsh demands placed on Greece by the European Union. Greece was given little choice in cutting spending; this meant reducing minimum wage and pension plans, and laying off 15,000 public-sector employees.
Greece has fallen victim to public humiliation. They feel that Germany has been unfair in requesting radical cuts in Greece’s spending. Germany has gained an upper hand in economic affairs in the European Union due to their financial stability, and as the underdog, Greece has trouble dealing with their unyielding commands.
Greece doesn’t want to separate from the eurozone at this time. However, with reforms being pushed upon them, they might have to reconsider.
And Greece isn’t the only country with the question of quitting the Euro on mind. The economic crisis has also hit Portugal and Ireland hard, and Italy is only now recovering. If the European Union were to separate, one country at a time, the existing European economy would change substantially, weakening the very powerful alliance.
The current situation in Greece definitely gives weight to the saying “between a rock and a hard place.” I feel the recent protests that we have seen in Greece will continue on for quite some time.
It is difficult to make suggestions for their recovery. However, I believe it’s in their best interest to stay put in the European Union. I don’t think that Greece has the strength to stand alone, independent from the EU. This alliance has helped Greece out, and that would most definitely not have been possible if Greece were to have stayed autonomous. Greece may be in a state of chaos and feel completely embarrassed about the firm grip Germany has around their country, but they really have no choice but to follow the strict demands cast upon them. The European Union is the country’s best support system and straying away from the Union will only lead to further and more serious problems.
I feel very proud and confident when I say that I am a Canadian citizen, and I honestly feel that we live in a country filled with more opportunities than any other country in the world. I completely understand why there is such a demand to immigrate to Canada. It is beyond good fortune to live in a country with next to no political turmoil, a relatively strong economy, an incredible health care system, a decent welfare system, and clean drinking water. My heart goes out to the citizens of Greece, who have lost not only their jobs but also their pride as a result of the uncertainty that plagues the future of their country.
But on the other hand, I feel they really have no other choice than to keep soldiering on the way they are in the EU – no matter how difficult it is to be trapped between a rock and a hard place.
