German Foreign Policy of Reconciliation and Greek Martyr Communities. An Overview for the Period 2014–2019
German Foreign Policy of Reconciliation and Greek Martyr Communities. An Overview for the Period 2014–2019

Summary/Abstract: This contribution examines German reconciliation policy towards Greece in the period 2014–2019. The conceptual approach is based on a political science perspective, including relevant literature from the emerging academic field of reconciliation research. A short overview of the last 70 years is provided, highlighting the shift of gear towards a German foreign policy of reconciliation. Symbolic gestures such as commemoration and wreath-laying ceremonies, but also pragmatic approaches are discussed. The focus is not only on the German policy of reconciliation, but also on Greek martyr towns and villages that are supposed to be the recipients of these reconciliation efforts. This contribution seeks to illustrate the chances and limits of German symbolic gestures regarding a bilateral reconciliation process. The inquiry examines a long-failing and contradictory process. This process depends on the attention and commitment of different actors from both countries and represents a node to the nature of their bilateral relations.

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