Greece will hold the six-month rotating Presidency of the European Union beginning January 1st, 2014, with a very limited budget. This presidency will take place during a period of social unrest brought on by salary cuts, tax raises, slashing of pensions, a rising unemployment rate, and political turmoil as the government tries to break up the Neo-Nazi Golden Dawn Party.
This will be Greece’s 5th presidency in the European Union, and its government prioritizes growth, creation of new jobs, the strengthening of economic union, and the stability of the common currency. The agenda also focuses on migration management to benefit the boosting of growth.
According to sources from Brussels -“Greece has the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a critical transitional period for Europe,” adding emphasis on the trust lost from European citizens due to the recession and consequent unemployment high. A top priority for the Greek Presidency is the promoting of policies which boosts growth and jobs.
For economic and symbolic reasons, the budget of the Greek Presidency will be “Spartan,” representing the frugal ideology of the Spartans. It has earmarked 50 million euros, compared to Cyprus and Ireland’s budget which was 60-80 million euros.
In regards to the deepening of the ENU, diplomatic sources stated: “Greece will emphasize promoting the Bank Union, which is the requirement to enhance the trust and liquidity in the European economy.”
With primary focus on boosting growth, the Greek Presidency will tackle immigration issues, as well as border control and mobility, aiming to promote the positive outcome of comprehensive European management. In addition, they will address problems arising from illegal migration in the economy, focus on readmission, human trafficking, and the foundation of institution to border control.
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