PTR Excursion 2025: Greece

Since the beginning of human civilization, humans have always been on the move, seeking safety, a better life, or simply new opportunities. However, this movement is not merely about crossing borders. Often, many people leave their homeland not because they want to, but because they are forced to. War, political oppression, human rights violations, and poverty exacerbated by global structures all drive people to migrate.

However, political and media narratives often portray these individuals as threats to national stability and security. Instead of being seen as victims of larger realities, they are often perceived as the source of the problem. This stigmatization obscures the fact that behind many journeys lie a story of injustice: communities destroyed by conflict, families losing their livelihoods due to economic exploitation or climate change, and many more reasons. It takes a lot to leave your home behind.

From 4th-12th July 2025, students, PhD-researchers, and others connected to the PTR master program went on an excursion to Greece to hear and listen directly from them: migrants, refugees, activists, researchers, members of local communities, churches, lawyers, politicians. This journey gave us the opportunity to understand the complexities involved, including the wounds and trauma experienced by people on the move, the social tensions faced by host socieaties, and the “peace initiatives” that are undertaken, providing shelter, guidance, safety, temporary homes. 

In the following report, you will find a brief overview of some of the experiences and reflections of participating students during the visit. What they share here is based on what they have observed, experienced, and reflected on during the visit; each speaks from their own perspective and does not intend to represent the entire group.