The Island of All Together
Directed by Philip Brink and Marieke van der Velden (2015)
Film Review
I was strangely moved by this documentary of European tourists and Syrian refugees interviewing each other on the Greek island of Lesbos. The latter is a common destination for refugees who cross the Mediterranean from Turkey.
I was genuinely surprised by the high educational level of the refugees. All were professionals (lawyers, teachers, mechanical engineers) or skilled trades people (carpenter, cosmeticians) in Syria. It’s no wonder Germany is so eager to accept them.
The postscript to the film indicates that most of the pairs reunited once the refugees reached their destination, with most of the Europeans actively assisting their refugee with adapting to their new life.
The Most Revolutionary Act 
I’m pleased to hear there’s a happy side to the story. Unfortunately more than 3,000 refugees drowned trying to reach Europe last year – and I’m not sure Germany is so enthusiastic these days about accepting more.
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The German right wing has been very effective in whipping up anti-immigrant sentiment among blue collar workers. However Merkel’s government and the German middle class are able to see the wealth these skilled workers and professionals will bring to the German economy.
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I hope Merkel can survive. She has a hard stand against the German right wing.
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So do I, Aunty, I think she has the strong support of the German corporate elite. So long as she doesn’t do anything to cross them, I think she will remain in power.
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Pingback: Close-Up With Syrian Refugees on Lesbos (22.36) | Talesfromthelou
Glad that the that truth about Syrian refugees is being told…Many speak English that would put some of our home-grown locals in Australia to shame.
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I myself find it really sad at the immense human misery caused by barbaric American foreign policy in the Middle East.
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