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Gesine Lötzsch

The Democracy of Debt Collection

According to the federal government, the Greeks may elect who they want provided that they continue to apply the dictates of the troika. Never before has it been so clearly stated that the ruling classes renounce fair-weather democracy when it comes to the money of the banks. Chairman of Die LINKE, Gesine Lötzsch explains further:

The federal government is behaving like a debt-collection company. Regardless of whether the debtor survives, it is crucial that the creditors get their money back.

The Democracy of Debt Collection that Schäuble wants to introduce in Greece hurts all of Europe. First, the heads of governments are appointed by a decree of the troika and now a common election manifesto is prescribed for all parties. This manifesto intends the Greeks to “voluntarily” drink the hemlock to its dregs. Yes, the so-called aid programs were bad for the Greek economy. They have resulted in Greece experiencing the second worst economic crisis since World War 2. Pension and wage cuts as well as tax increases have driven the country deeper into crisis. The new reduction requirements are economic insanity. Clearly the federal government wants to set an example. All other countries should see what can happen to a debtor who does not follow the will of the Chancellor.

Die LINKE calls for a debt reduction that gives Greece the opportunity to emerge from the crisis. At the same time, we need an effective program for the future of Greece, so that the country can recover from this absurd shock treatment. The additional costs which are thereby incurred shall be financed through a financial transaction tax.