International attention is focussed on the Greek government’s handling of the fires, which the Los Angeles Times noted reflected “years of neglect and corruption.”

The BBC reports that arson is being investigated as a possible cause of the fires and that a 1 million EUR reward has been offered to help catch those responsible. The Economist, writes “arsonists certainly have strong economic incentives. Rising incomes have fuelled a construction boom.” But without the land to build on, developers have not been able to take advantage of this. Greek law protects former forested areas from residential development. However, The Economist writes, “developers are practised as getting around such regulations … [especially as] local officials are often open to bribery, while politicians are prone to declaring amnesties for illegal buildings ahead of an election.”

Damage to the economy from the fires is estimated at €1.2 billion to €4 billion and the European Commission has pledged to provide up to €200 million in aid, Reuters states. Monitoring this money will be important. Global Insight writes that “although EU supervision of the funds donated could send a warning message to local authorities prone to corruption, tracing every cent is very difficult for EU staff. By ensuring transparent accountancy with regard to the allocation of funds, the government could present itself as a staunch defender of anti-corruption laws.”