Greeks in Europe: Antinomies in National Identities

Abstract

The attempt to create a common European identity is considered a prerequisite for achieving cultural homogeneity as well as essential for supporting the supranational decision-making institutional framework. The problems of maintaining both national sovereignty and national identity, and of preserving cultural particularity have preoccupied Greek political discourse since the beginning of the negotiations for Greece's accession into the EC. Although presenting an overall pro-EU profile, Greeks have reacted negatively to measures allowing aliens to participate in national and local issues. The situation has become even more complex owing to Balkan and Eastern Europe instability and also to the continuing politicoeconomic crisis in Greece itself. Structural changes and the modernization of the functions of the state have become inevitable in order to maintain Greece's position in the EU and to allow the country to catch up with Europe's overall development. These dilemmas have triggered ambivalent feelings toward national and European identity and toward the necessity of modernizing the nation's social, economic, and political structures.