The Cafe Society, a part of Shepherd University’s Life Long Learning Program will hold its next discussion on Sept. 15. The focus will be on the unprecedented flow of refugees swarming into Western Europe from the Middle East. These weekly discussions are held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the Rumsey Room of the Shepherd University Student Center each Tuesday morning. They are continuing on an informal basis through the summer break. Pre-registration is not required and there are no fees or charges.

Mike Austin, who facilitates the sessions along with Art Wineburg, commented, “While immigration issues loom large in the current U. S. presidential election, they pale by comparison with the surge of refugees and immigrants flowing across and around the Mediterranean into Europe. There are a number of legal and human rights issues in addition to the compelling humanitarian, ethical and moral considerations that European Political leaders must address in dealing with the crisis. At some point the U.S. will have to play a role and provide assistance. We may ultimately have to accept our share of the displaced people as we did in the Kosovo Crisis.”

“The fragile world economy at the moment and continued concern about the EU’s ability to deal with the protracted Greek financial crisis will limit West European nations’ ability to absorb such a large influx of people. Many are unskilled and language and religious differences may further exacerbate the situation. Political controversy over the added burden placed on social welfare programs by immigrants was already a growing problem before this most recent surge of immigrants and refugees. The Schengen agreement and protocols providing for free movement of people are now an integral part of EU law which will make it difficult for member nations to provide for public safety and security,” he continued.

For more information contact Austin at 304-876-0598 or michael.austin@frontiernet.net.