Political will to thwart terrorism
Greece’s Ministry of Public Order has always had a key role to play. The emergence of international terrorism as a global problem after the terrorist attacks in the USA on September 11, 2001, and the enduring threat from homegrown left-wing militant guerrillas both demand responsible handling on behalf of state authorities. However, despite repeated warnings by responsible officials, the Greek government has for the most part turned a blind eye on the gradual emergence of the new generation of urban guerrilla groups. The two officials appointed so far to the Public Order Ministry have proved to be inefficient. Modern-day terrorism cannot be tackled with outdated strategies and with a political staff that seems preoccupied with public relations exercises. Dealing with the problem requires a great deal of political will and constant alertness in order to make sure that the recent rocket strike against the US Embassy in Athens will not mark the beginning of a new round of bloody attacks that will also take its toll on the country’s international image.
