ESC: Oikopolis - Work for Solidarity and the Environment

Ecological Movement of Thessaloniki (EMT), is the oldest ecological initiative in Greece. It was founded in 1982, by individuals with ecological sensitivities who wanted to turn them into action. The key principles of the EMT consists of ecology, peace/non-violence, grassroots democracy, human rights and social solidarity. EMT understands the ecology as a tool of analysis, critique and social change, starting from a new angle, as to reinstate man in nature, by utilizing the findings of science and translating them into social practice, with interdependence, naturalness, plurality and diversity as its guiding axes. This is what social ecology advocates, not merely sticking plasters on the planet's wounded body. In recent years EMT has implemented projects within the framework of the humanitarian relief to the most vulnerable persons in Greece; homeless people, people living below the poverty level, refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. Main Projects /Activities: 1. Alkyone - Refugee Day Center (ARDC) 1.1 Providing basic services to homeless citizens, asylum seekers and refugees. In July 2016, EMT created ARDC for refugees, asylum seekers and homeless people. ARDC was the first organized and licensed Day Center in Thessaloniki; and the only one remaining; that provides basic needs, such as food, clothing, NFIs, laundry services and personal hygiene. 1.2 Social Service: Social Support and assistance to refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, referrals to other organizations. 1.3 Multicultural activities are organized with the participation of refugees and local community with major achievement the inclusion of EMT's good practice at «The contribution of youth working the context of migration and refugee matters"-EU publications 2.OIKOPOLIS-APARALLELCITYFORECOLOGYANDSOCIALSOLIDARITY: Created in 2013, 2.1 Dissemination and application of ecological ideas and values and alternative solutions through organizing events, lectures, discussions, seminars,workshops and other activities 2.2 Solidarity towards individuals and social groups in need, as well as awareness raising on issues of discrimination, racism, violence, as well as organizing actions to support those who suffer from them. 2.3 Greek/English and other language lessons. 2.4 Organizing awareness activities regarding environmental crimes, as well as legal advice on environmental issues. 2.5 GREEN WAVE FESTIVAL:It is an alternative “green” celebration organized every year since 2011, in cooperation with other civil society actors. It relies heavily on volunteers for the planning, setting-up and the implementation. Green Wave Festival’s objectives are the exchange of ideas in alternative solutions to social and environmental issues as well as fostering collaborations to achieve those solutions and propagate them. The Green Wave Festival also facilitates the availability of ecological products, and in general ecological information that every person can institute in their daily life.