Challenging Mobilities in and to the EU during Times of Crises: The Case of Greece

This open-access book explores mobility challenges faced by migrants and refugees in Europe, particularly in Greece, during the last decade. It offers new insights and data on various topics, including refugee and immigrant integration, governance challenges, host attitudes, solidarity, political claims, and the changing emigration environment in Greece within a European context. Contributions from diverse fields contribute to a comprehensive understanding of these issues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 319 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This open-access book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the complex mobility challenges faced by migrants and refugees in Europe, particularly in Greece, during the last decade, when the economic and refugee crises converged. It offers fresh insights and data on a wide array of topics related to new emigrants, refugees, and mobility in Greece. The book delves into themes that extend beyond refugee and immigrant integration and governance challenges, encompassing host attitudes, solidarity, political and protest claims in the public sphere, as well as the evolving emigration environment in Greece within the broader context of Europe. Contributions from the fields of philosophy, anthropology, sociology, economics, political science, geography, and linguistics make this book an invaluable resource for students, scholars, policy-makers, and social scientists engaged in migration-related issues both within and beyond Europe.

Introduction:
The past decade has witnessed a significant influx of migrants and refugees into Europe, driven by various factors such as economic instability, political conflicts, and human rights abuses. Greece, in particular, has been a focal point for these movements, receiving a large number of asylum seekers and refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, and other war-torn regions. This influx has posed significant challenges for both the host country and the migrants and refugees themselves.

Mobility Challenges:
Migrants and refugees face numerous mobility challenges in Europe, including access to legal channels for migration, safe and legal travel routes, and adequate accommodation and healthcare. They may also face discrimination, exploitation, and violence, particularly in the initial stages of their journey. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive policies and regulations in many European countries has made it difficult for migrants and refugees to integrate into society and access essential services.

Refugee and Immigrant Integration:
Refugee and immigrant integration is a critical issue in Europe, as it involves the social, economic, and cultural integration of individuals who have fled their homes due to conflict or persecution. Integration challenges include language barriers, discrimination, and social exclusion. Policy-makers and social scientists are working to develop effective strategies to promote refugee and immigrant integration, including language learning programs, job training, and social support networks.

Host Attitudes:
Host attitudes towards migrants and refugees play a significant role in shaping the integration process. Positive attitudes towards refugees and immigrants can promote social cohesion and support for integration efforts. However, negative attitudes, such as fear, prejudice, and hostility, can lead to social exclusion and discrimination. Policy-makers and social scientists are exploring ways to address host attitudes and promote positive attitudes towards migrants and refugees.

Solidarity and Support:
Solidarity and support from the broader community are essential for the well-being of migrants and refugees. Community organizations, religious groups, and local authorities can play a crucial role in providing assistance, accommodation, and legal support to migrants and refugees. However, there are also challenges associated with community engagement, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and political polarization.

Political and Protest Claims:
Migrants and refugees often raise political and protest claims in the public sphere, seeking to address their rights and conditions. These claims can take various forms, including demands for legal recognition, access to healthcare, and social assistance. Policy-makers and social scientists are studying the dynamics of political and protest claims and exploring ways to address them in a fair and inclusive manner.

Changing Emigration Environment:
The changing emigration environment in Greece within the broader context of Europe is also a significant issue. The country has experienced a significant decline in emigration in recent years, due to economic crisis, political instability, and stricter immigration policies. However, there are also new trends in emigration, such as the migration of young professionals and students seeking education and employment opportunities in other countries.

Conclusion:
The mobility challenges faced by migrants and refugees in Europe, particularly in Greece, are complex and multifaceted. They require a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach that addresses the social, economic, and political dimensions of migration. By promoting refugee and immigrant integration, addressing host attitudes, fostering solidarity and support, and addressing political and protest claims, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all migrants and refugees.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031115769
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022