Refugees and Migrants in Greece: An Ethnographic Reflective Case Study

Introduction: Greece has experienced a double challenge of being under austerity for the past decade and also facing an influx of refugees and migrants (R&Ms), mostly fleeing war zones. The purpose of this case study is to report on a shelter camp in Greece. Method: An ethnographic case study technique was used. Data were collected via interviews, personal observations, and field notes. Analytic themes based on the coded data and personal memo writing were created. The sample consisted of the shelter camps’ living social reality. Results: Analysis revealed five thematic categories: ground rules, makeshift layout, food and drinks, children, and nursing perspectives. These were subsequently collated into a coherent “story” about routine daily life in the shelter camp. Discussion: As camp facilities had been hastily erected, the services were basic and life was harsh. The need to provide better facilities including social and psychological support for R&Ms is evident for this particular host facility. Implications for Practice: In Greece, R&Ms and staff cooperation is constantly sought as this new societal arrangement is a highly complex and volatile mix for everybody involved. Nurses have both a humanistic and a professional duty to be involved and help out. As the camp was run by the army, one could question the impact on culturally conflicting care provision.