Greek economic crisis to be focus of faculty panel

Skidmore’s Economics Department will host a panel discussion titled “The Economic Crisis in Greece” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, in Gannett Auditorium, Palamountain Hall. Admission is free and open to the public.

Faculty panelists include moderator Mehmet Odekon, who will present an overview of the discussion, including historical background; Joerg Bibow, who will discuss the severity of the Greek economic crisis in context, including causes and resolution; Sandra Goff, who will share the social and environmental impact of the crisis in Greece and the European Union; and Marketa Wolfe, who will share the financial and economic impact of the situation in central and eastern Europe.

The discussion is especially timely, as the new Greek government of Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will face a major test this week when a barrage of economic reforms and austerity measures demanded by Greece’s international creditors will need to be voted on to become law, according to The New York Times. For background on Greece’s economic situation, please see this Times article.

Wednesday’s program will include time for audience questions. A reception with light refreshments will follow the event.