What's in a Word II

By Jaime Zamesnik

What is the proper way to describe the increase in displaced person arrivals that have occurred in Europe in the past few years? There seems to be a difference in opinion between those here in Munich who are directly involved in the migration issue, and those of us in the West who are looking from the outside in. From government employees and social workers, to tour guides and PhD students, those here in Munich take exception to the moniker of "crisis."

One of the first officials we met with firmly stated that within Munich, the large increase in migrant arrivals is certainly considered a challenge, but not a crisis. I think it is an important distinction. A challenge is normally viewed as something difficult that hopefully can be overcome. Although the task at hand may be formidable, the notion is that with hard work, perseverance, and maybe a little luck, the challenge can be overcome.

Labeling that same formidable task as a "crisis" immediately changes the tenor of the situation into a heart-palpitating undertaking. Attaching the word to the movement of people can create a "do something quick and we'll fix it later" attitude. Hopefully the EU-Turkey deal will not prove to one such move. Munich has taken a much calmer path and has implemented thoughtful policies meant to serve the needs of the refugees during the time that their status is uncertain, and others that will aid the integration process for those who are allowed to stay. The system is not perfect, but by working under the assumption that the problem can be solved, rather than under a defeatist attitude, they seem to be on the right path.