Greek riots should open world's eyes

Greece is bleeding as the country experiences its worst riots in decades, after police shot and killed a 15-year-old boy late last week.

But, while the incident of police brutality sparked the outbreak of violence, the real cause seems to be the tragedy of young Greeks, who do not see a future for themselves because of the harsh economic conditions in their country.

What is happening in Greece must serve as a warning to the rest of the world. Earlier this year, when the price of commodities shot up across the globe, there were riots in many countries as people protested against the increased cost of food.

As the financial crisis begins to hit the real economy in many countries - and job prospects get dim, basic needs become too expensive and homes are lost to banks and debt collectors - the mood in many nations is likely to become dark and angry.

Governments will need to take steps to ease the burden of their people, and be cautious in how they deal with popular frustrations, if the world is going to avoid more violent protests.