Background Information
Greece is a country located on the southernmost tip of the Balkan peninsula. It is bordered by Albania, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Turkey, and the Ionian and Aegean Seas. It has a land area of 50,942 square miles and a population of roughly 10.75 million. Greece has a long and storied history; it was the cradle of classical civilization and a major setting of the Greek myths. It is considered the birthplace of democracy and philosophy, and has played a pivotal role in world history.
Location and Climate
Greece is located in the Mediterranean Sea, and its coastline measures 13,676 kilometres. It has the tenth-longest coastline in the world and the longest coastline in Europe. Greece has a temperate Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Most of the precipitation falls between the months of October to April, due to the seasonality of winter storms, while the drier months of May to September receive very little.
Economy and Tourism
Following a devastating economic crisis in 2009, Greece has enjoyed a resurgence in its economy, with a significant increase in job creation and renewed health of a strident tourism industry. Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with millions of people visiting each year to experience its ancient sites, idyllic islands and beautiful beaches. Tourism accounts for a substantial portion of the nation’s economy, with the sector now responsible for more than 20 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Sports and Culture
The people of Greece are internationally renowned for their passion for sports. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the nation, and the Greek National Team has enjoyed success in several international competitions. Olympic sports are also an important part of the culture and several Olympic athletes from Greece have won gold medals.
The culture of Greece is rich and vibrant, with a deep and strong sense of heritage. Music and dance are important aspects of the nation’s culture, and folk songs and dances are still widely performed throughout the country.
Religion and Politics
Greece is a predominantly Christian nation, with the Greek Orthodox Church representing the religious majority. The church plays an important role in the life of the country, and religious celebrations are held annually.
Politically, Greece is a unitary parliamentary republic and a member of the European Union. Its government is based in the capital city of Athens, although the nation is divided into 13 regions that have their own local governments.
Effects of Climate Change
Climate change has had a significant effect on Greece, with predictions indicating that the Mediterranean region could experience significant temperature increase by the end of this century. Scientists predict that the average temperature could rise by as much as 3°C to 4°C.
This rise in temperature could have devastating effects on the country, with rising sea levels leading to the erosion of coastal areas, increased droughts, and a reduction in agricultural production. In addition, the tourism sector, which generates billions of euros for the country each year, could also be affected.
Impact of the Refugee Crisis
The ongoing refugee crisis has had a profound effect on Greece and the rest of Europe. The country has seen a huge influx of refugees, mostly from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, with many seeking asylum in the European Union.
The influx of refugees has put a strain on the infrastructure of Greece, with the country struggling to cope with the numbers of people arriving. Many have been housed in temporary camps, and the government has had to invest heavily in providing aid and resources. In addition, the refugee crisis has caused a political divide in the country, with tensions around the issue reaching a tipping point in recent years.
Environmental Challenges
Greece faces significant environmental challenges, from the spread of Non-Native Invasive Species to air pollution, deforestation and the effects of climate change. The country is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the Mediterranean monk seal, which is classified as an endangered species.
The government has taken steps to address these issues, including the introduction of strict environmental regulations and the creation of dedicated conservation areas. Additionally, the nation has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.
Economic Issues
Greece is still recovering from the global economic crisis that it experienced in the 2000s. The country’s public debt is among the highest in the world and the nation has been dependent on international bailouts.
Nevertheless, there has been a resurgence in the economy, with the public debt now shrinking and the economy growing. The country has successfully implemented reforms and has seen an increase in job creation. This has helped to offset some of the economic hardship experienced by the locals.
Relations With its Neighbors
Greece enjoys friendly relations with its neighbors and is a part of multiple international organizations, including the NATO, the Council of Europe and the United Nations.
Greece is also a part of the Eurozone, a region comprising of countries in the European Union that share a common currency. This has been a great benefit to the nation and has helped to encourage economic growth.
The nation has faced difficulties with Turkey in recent years over a variety of issues, from territorial disputes to immigration. However, the two countries have remained at peace and have managed to avoid any major conflict.
