The former Prime Minister of Greece, George Papandreou, through a CNN article entitled “Discover the lost art of democracy” explains the reasons that drove him to make the widely publicized decision for a referendum.
Papandreou explains that he proposed a referendum in an effort to give people ownership during the process of the rescue program. He noted that this proposal pushed for a wider political consent in Greece and led to a coalition government.
According to the former Prime Minister, austerity has created a sense of injustice and lack of opportunity, which has fueled political extremism in Greek society.
He added that the opposition parties choose to disrupt the public and not to cooperate towards a common reform agenda. This kind of political opportunism is not conducive to the welfare of society.
In Greece, the crisis was prolonged and the needed reforms were not taken at the right time. This delay is still costing Greece.
The personal experience of Papandreou has taught us that democracy is now facing the moment of truth, whereas extremism is increasing in the European Union. Also due to the political impasse in the United States, the leaders struggle to respond effectively to new and complicated challenges on a global level.
People feel alienated by conventional politics and are frustrated by the absence of effective policies that serve the needs of society. He is convinced that the real problem is not simply to find economic solutions, but to rethink democratic institutions.
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