Crisis tests our politicians
The crisis is putting Greek politicians to the test. We can see who can stand the heat and who cannot. We can see who puts the public good ahead of his or her personal interest and who doesn?t.
There have been some pleasant surprises like, for example, Labor Minister Yiannits Vroutsis. As a deputy with the conservative New Democracy party, Vroutisis often drifted toward populism. However, as head of the labor ministry, a demanding and crucial post, Vroutsis has displayed a responsible and determined attitude.
There have been more cases of politicians who have demonstrated that despite the pressure of ensuring their re-election, they still have the guts and political courage to make or sign tough decisions.
Unfortunately, there have also been some examples to avoid. Self-styled technocrats, professors and others who show their arrogance by insisting on engaging in populism, shying away from painful decisions and ducking responsibility for the state?s bankruptcy.
