Fires in Greece have been burning out of control in foothills near Athens and the Evros region, causing the loss of 20 lives so far. Among the victims are refugees and migrants who crossed the border, seeking shelter in the forests. The Greek government has expressed its condolences for the tragedy and efforts are being made to extinguish the fires. However, the fires are being fueled by strong winds and high temperatures, making it difficult for firefighters to bring them under control.
The fires have also raised concerns about the risks faced by migrants and refugees trying to reach the European Union. Along with the dangers of violence, robbery, and drowning in the Mediterranean, they now face the threat of being caught in the ring of fire in northern Greece. The River Evros serves as a gateway for many desperate individuals, with the forest on the other side providing cover. Unfortunately, the recent fires have proven fatal for those who sought refuge there.
Identifying the victims will be challenging, as their bodies were found within a wide radius and their remains have been taken for post mortem examination. Authorities are calling on relatives to come forward to help with identification. One individual fears that his cousin was among the victims, but contacting Greek authorities is perceived as risky for fear of being sent back to Turkey. Throughout August, hundreds of people have attempted to cross the border every day, leading to multiple arrests of traffickers.
The fires have also sparked tensions among the local population, with some residents blaming migrants for causing the fires. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. Nevertheless, a video showing a man detaining refugees and migrants and accusing them of trying to burn Greeks has caused outrage in Greece. The man behind the video has been apprehended, along with two accomplices.
In response to the fires and the incidents of violence against migrants, the Supreme Court Prosecutor has called for investigations into their causes and the alleged racist attacks. The situation remains challenging for firefighters, with numerous evacuations taking place in affected areas. Greek officials have urged the evacuation of thousands of people from the district of Ano Liosia in the north-west of Athens, although many have chosen to stay despite the risks involved.
The ongoing fires in Greece highlight the urgent need for stronger measures to prevent such tragedies and protect vulnerable individuals seeking safety in the European Union. Efforts must be made to address the root causes of migration and to provide safer passage for those in need. The authorities should also seek to foster understanding and empathy within local communities, combating hostility and promoting harmony.
