Lately, we have been overwhelmed by the refugee crisis and the huge influx of refugees that are coming to Europe for the hope of a better life. Governments are debating as to how to handle this, and so are we. The truth is, yes, it is our responsibility to take care of these people or to at least give them the chance to have a better life. However, it is easier said than done.
What the rest of the world needs to realise is the fact that every country is battling its own issues, surely, they may not be as bad as the refugee crisis, but clubbed with the influx of refugees, it does blow out of proportion and in turn, affects the citizens of that country.
For example, in Sweden, and since the opening of borders within the European Union, we are struggling with a huge influx of Romanians, who in their own country, are not being recognised nor are they given their rights. Therefore, they are coming to Sweden with the hope of finding a better life. Looking at the Romanians and then looking at the refugee crisis, we, as Swedes are stuck. We cannot stop the Romanians because it is within their right to move freely, but on the other hand, we also have the Syrians, who are, just like the Romanians, looking for a peaceful life.
Where does one draw the line? We are quick to judge and point fingers because as human beings, it is in our nature to put the blame on someone simply because that makes us feel better about ourselves. However, we need to look deeper into the situation of each and every country and only then, can we start pointing fingers.
— The readers is a Swedish student based in Malmo, Sweden
