Spain and Greece: Health Systems Cut in the Face of the Pandemic

Following the 2010 crisis and subsequent social service cuts, the health systems in Greece and Spain became precarious, with significant resource reductions in hospitals and health centers. Both countries implemented harsh austerity policies that weakened frontline healthcare, which struggled during the 2020 pandemic. Three years after the first devastating wave of COVID-19, healthcare professionals Guillén del Barrio and Argyri Erotokritou reflect on the state of public health before the pandemic and recount the harsh realities faced during the peak months. They conclude that administrations have learned no lessons about the importance of strengthening healthcare.

How a Greek bank and funds seized people’s homes

The investigation by Reporters United reveals a complex financial web involving Eurobank and other entities, leading to the seizure of properties from vulnerable borrowers in Greece. The Pillar portfolio, consisting of non-performing loans, was securitized and sold, with Eurobank and Pimco playing significant roles. The report highlights the use of creative accounting and tax avoidance strategies, facilitated by the Hercules securitization scheme, to benefit creditors at the expense of borrowers. The investigation also uncovers the involvement of real estate companies in acquiring auctioned properties, often at minimal prices, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. The findings have sparked political debate in Greece, with lawmakers questioning the impact of these financial practices on borrowers.

Omer Bartov: “Israel suffers from a serious disease of euphoria of power”

Omer Bartov, an Israeli-American Holocaust historian, discusses the potential for genocide in Gaza and the phenomenon he describes as the 'euphoria of power' in Israel. He suggests that this euphoria was at the core of the events of October 7th, without specifying the year or the events in question. Bartov also touches upon the topic of anti-Semitism, proposing that its reduction is linked to the resolution of the Palestinian issue. The context of the interview suggests a focus on historical perspectives and current political issues in the Middle East, particularly concerning Israel and Gaza.

China’s New Silk Road: The Dragon’s Head in Greece

The article discusses the significant Chinese investment in Greece, particularly through the state-owned China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) and its acquisition and development of the Greek Port of Piraeus. It highlights the strategic importance of the port as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative and the resulting deepening of Greek-Chinese cooperation. The article also addresses concerns about labour rights violations, environmental impacts, and the influence of Chinese investment on the Greek real estate market through the 'Golden Visa' scheme. It questions whether the benefits of Chinese investment, such as job creation and infrastructure development, are equitably shared among Greeks. The article also touches on the broader implications of Chinese investments in Greece's energy sector and the potential challenges to local industries and communities.

Supermarket Workers In The COVID-19 Era

Supermarket workers in Greece have faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including exposure to health risks, increased workloads, and legal breaches by employers. Despite being essential to maintaining the food supply chain, they have been underpaid and overworked. The Greek government's emergency laws and extended working hours have exacerbated the situation, with some workers even being forced to work despite serious health conditions. Supermarket chains have responded variably, with some hiring additional staff and others opposing extended operating hours. Labor experts and union representatives have raised concerns about the violation of workers' rights and the potential for a 'Shock Doctrine' approach by the government.

Juan Branco: “We Are Lucky that Assange Is Still Alive”

Juan Branco, a lawyer for Wikileaks, described the organization as a small entity facing the enormous power of state secrets during a press conference in Athens. Branco, who has a notable legal background including a Ph.D. from Yale and work with the International Criminal Court, has joined Wikileaks' legal team and is advocating for Julian Assange's asylum. The article discusses the legal challenges Assange faces, including charges in the US, the use of extraterritorial jurisdiction, and the denial of proper legal counsel in the UK. Branco criticizes mainstream media for their lack of coverage on Assange's case and suggests that Assange's treatment reveals the nature of Western regimes. The article also touches on Branco's personal experiences and pressures in defending Assange, who is described as under psychological torture but still resilient.

Greece’s Unholy “Alliance” with Elgin: Turning Antiquities into “Legoland”

The Greek government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, faces criticism for its decision to dismantle and reassemble significant archaeological findings from the Byzantine era discovered during Thessaloniki metro construction. Despite Mitsotakis's demands for the return of the Parthenon Marbles from the British Museum, his administration's approach to the 'Byzantine Pompeii' has drawn parallels to Lord Elgin's historical plundering. The Central Archaeological Council's decision to support the dismantling, under political pressure, is contested by many, including Europa Nostra and the International Council on Monuments and Sites. The controversy highlights the tension between cultural heritage preservation and modern development, as well as the broader issues of political strife and economic challenges in Greece.

How a “Ghost-ship” Abandoned Passengers and Left an Island in Despair

Seajets, a Greek maritime company, has been accused of abandoning its contractual obligations to service Aegean islands, leaving islanders and tourists stranded. Despite being subsidized by the Greek State to operate routes including Anafi, the company's vessel Aqua Jewel was instead chartered in the Azores. This led to shortages of goods, disrupted services, and financial losses for the tourist season on Anafi. The company, controlled by Marios Iliopoulos, has been criticized for its lack of professionalism and punctuality. The Greek Ministry of Shipping and Islands Policy's contracts with Seajets stipulate subsidies for specific routes, but the company has failed to comply, raising questions about the use of taxpayer money.

Συνέντευξη στη Δέσποινα Παπαγεωργίου

The article is an interview with Italian philosopher and historical figure of the Italian Autonomia movement, Antonio Negri. Negri reflects on his life's work and activism, discussing the tumultuous history of modern Italy, his role in the Autonomia movement, and his time in prison. He also shares his thoughts on the current political and economic landscape in Europe, the Arab Spring, and the rise of neoliberalism. Negri emphasizes the importance of love and social bonds in society and politics, and the need for a new form of organization that goes beyond anarchism and is institutionally structured. He also comments on the challenges faced by the Greek government in negotiations with the troika and the broader struggle for democracy in Europe.

Manolis Glezos: 'Such Treachery Has Never Existed in World History'

Manolis Glezos, a prominent figure in Greek history and leftist politics, discusses the ongoing struggle for national independence in the context of the Greek debt crisis. He criticizes the Greek government and foreign entities like the Troika, G-8, and G-20 for perpetuating Greece's subservience. Glezos recounts historical acts of resistance, including his own during World War II, and emphasizes the need for collective action and national consciousness. He proposes six solutions to the crisis, including addressing German war reparations and implementing direct democracy. Glezos remains a symbol of resistance and inspiration for future generations.