Greece, Austerity and Growth. 22/04/2015
The neo-liberal policies used to tackle the economic crisis in the European periphery have proved to be counter-productive: they failed to overcome the crisis and lead to growth and development and they also caused a severe humanitarian crisis with immense social and political consequences.
More and more politicians, economists and academics suggest that there is another way out of this vicious circle. This alternative policy could enforce sound economic development and sustainable growth, entrepreneurship, public and private investments, convergence and strengthen a healthy banking system. It also should take into account essential social indicators, especially unemployment and poverty, access to health and education, as well as transparency and accountability in all aspects of economic and political life.
Programme
15.00–15.15: Opening by GUE/NGL President Gabriele Zimmer and GUE/NGL Vice-President Malin Björk
15.15–16.45: The Greek experience: Fighting Debt, Experiencing Austerity and Building Growth
Discussion by Think Tank Economists and Experts:
Daniel Gros, Director of the Centre for European Policy Studies, Brussels
Zsolt Darvas, Senior Fellow at the Bruegel Institute, Brussels
Philippe Legrain, Visiting Senior Fellow at the European Institute of the L.S.E.
16.45–18.15: Greek Debt, the Austerity Programme and Prospects for Growth:
Discussion by Members of the European Parliament:
Dimitris Papadimoulis, Vice-President of the European Parliament GUE/NGL – Greece
Sergio Gaetano Cofferati, Vice-Chair of the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection, S&D – Italy
Ska Keller, Vice-President of Greens/EFA – Germany
18.15–18.30: Closure by GUE/NGL President Gabriele Zimmer and GUE/NGL Vice-President Neoklis Sylikiotis
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GUE/NGL press contact: Gianfranco Battistini [email protected]