Published: 11.05.2025
We are back home – after a short week we could return to our safe apartments, to our families, from whom we said goodbye a few days ago – knowing that we will see each other again soon. We boarded a plane, received food and drinks, managed to transfer in Athens without issue, and then in Munich we received all our luggage completely. We even managed to bring gifts. None of us had to pay a smuggler or get into a dinghy at night and risk our lives, again and again until it works. We simply came home, and everything was as usual. After a week – not after years or never again, because it is too dangerous, the family no longer lives or is far away, or the place is destroyed by war.
We can also return to work and do not have to manage with 1/5 of our colleagues because the state does not pay the promised funding, and the donor cannot step in anymore due to Trump. We are also not just 2 social workers for 1700 people relying on donation-funded NGOs to take over state responsibilities. The entire supply and equipment of the camps is financed by the EU – yet private NGOs have to step in with the help of volunteers to provide absolutely basic services. This includes, for example, healthcare, food distribution for the sick or because the provided food is inedible, clothing in the camp. Psychological, social worker, and educational support is also only provided by NGOs and is not state-funded, primarily taking place outside the camp. Strangely, on-site from the EU, only asylum procedure counseling is available. Otherwise, the camps are 'closed facilities' and hermetically sealed. Access is not permitted for volunteers, journalists, lawyers, etc.
We also do not have to endure when another shipwreck occurs and mourn the dead. The government is not only accused of not helping but also of being responsible for the tragedy in the form of pushbacks.
But we also need to continue our efforts here to remind civil society and the state of their responsibilities, to point out grievances, and to fight for more openness and support.
On this journey, we saw so much warmth, hospitality, trust, and solidarity in a reality that is hardly bearable. We experienced how there are always people who do not let themselves be beaten down and continue to see the dignity of each individual every day and try to support them – even if sometimes it can only be 'a smile or a hug.' People who are there when no one else is. Organizations that cooperate with each other, even though they all struggle with massive budget cuts. They try to find answers to what is most urgent – for the people, not for their organization.
We enjoyed the beauty of Greece and the sea and were touched by the encounters, stories, and places. The place names have taken on a face and become alive, the numbers of refugees have turned into individual life stories. We are connected through the fates of the people we work with and for. And we are connected with all those who do not stop looking and speaking about what is really happening at the EU's external borders.
It was a week full of intense encounters and impressions, and much needs to settle before it can be categorized. Cynicism and warmth exist right next to each other and at the same time. This week left an impression on everyone, broadened perspectives, gave new energy, and a certainty that our work is important and meaningful – and above all, that we are not alone. We can only tackle these tasks together - each in their own way and with their own means. And in all the difficulties, we should enjoy the beautiful moments in life.
Thank you to all who took the time for us, told us about their work and the people. We will think of you.
