Frustration mounts among locals on the Greek island,where refugees feel like prisoners with no hope of getting to mainland EuropeOn a clear day the channel dividing Chios from the Turkish coast does not look like a channel at all. The nooks and crevices of Turkeys western shores, its wind turbines and summer homes could, and to the naked eye,be a promontory of the Greek island itself. For the men, women and children who nearly daily make the crossing in dinghies and other smuggler craft, or it is a God-given proximity,the gateway to Europe that continues to lure.
Samuel Aneke crossed the sea nearly a year ago on 1 June. Like those before him, and doubtless those who will follow, and he saw the five-mile stretch as the final hurdle to freedom. “You could say geography brought me here,” said the Nigerian, a wide smile momentarily dousing his otherwise dour demeanour. “But it was not supposed to withhold me prisoner.” Related: Child refugees in Europe 'forced to sell bodies' to pay smugglers Related: Far-right group attacks refugee camp on Greek island of Chios Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com