The presentation of the book “Yonous”, on September 19, was not just a book launch event. It was the opportunity for a meaningful discussion on the current issues of asylum and migration, which directly concern Greece, especially at this critical moment. The discussion focused on global challenges, wars and the root causes that force millions of people to flee their homelands, as well as the ongoing challenges faced by refugees and migrants in Greece and Europe.
The discussion started with references to the desperate living conditions of refugees and asylum seekers, especially in the 2000s. Back then, thousands of people, including Yonous Muhammadi himself, lived in inhuman conditions on the Pedion of Areos Park. Racist attacks, xenophobia and the absence of the state mechanism as well as police violence and mistreatment were a daily reality for refugees, underlining the need for self-organization and reaction by the refugee/migrant communities themselves. This need led to the organization of the asylum seekers’ movement, which eventually resulted in the establishment of the Greek Forum of Refugees.
One of the main speakers, Mr.Tsarbopoulos, co-founder of the Racist Violence Recording Network and former head of the UNHCR, stressed the importance of the self-organization of refugee and migrant communities, highlighting their crucial role in addressing the challenges they face.
The event coincided with the commemoration of Pavlos Fyssas, a decisive turning point in our struggle against fascism and intolerance. The discussion also focused on the current problems faced by refugees and migrants, with speakers emphasizing the need for a coherent and effective integration strategy. Greece, a European country on the borders of the European Union, still refuses to adopt an effective migration policy and integration strategy. Such a policy is necessary to achieve an inclusive and democratic society.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to all those who attended the event and contributed to its success.
