The battle for Athens’ refugee blocks

[InTime News]

More than two decades aft the Greek state expropriated 4 exile flat blocks connected Alexandras Avenue successful Athens, a long-delayed restoration program is moving forward, reviving a struggle implicit who should signifier the aboriginal of the historical buildings. 

Constructed betwixt 1933 and 1936 for families from Asia Minor and Pontus, the Bauhaus-style complexes narrowly escaped demolition successful the aboriginal 2000s aft campaigns by architects and universities secured landmark extortion status. 

Yet the buildings remained neglected for years, yet becoming location to a self-organized assemblage of much than 400 residents, including migrants, Greeks and 50 children. 

The Attica determination authorization present says European backing will reconstruct the apartments arsenic κοινωνικά lodging “of dignity and solidarity,” while promising relocation support for existent occupants. 

But the residents’ corporate rejects the plan, warning of displacement and gentrification. 

Instead, it is asking support for its nonprofit relation to renovate the buildings independently, utilizing its ain resources. 

Both sides picture the task arsenic a κοινωνικά mission, but their competing visions look progressively headed toward confrontation.