EU Court of Human Rights condemned Greece for pushbacks: EU Commissioner assesses the situation in Greece.
At the beginning of the year, the European Court of Human Rights found Greece guilty of systematically rejecting migrants without allowing them the chance to apply for asylum. The Greek government firmly denies these accusations. In response, the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, was visiting Athens to discuss the situation.
During his official visit on January 16th, 2025, Brunner was meeting with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, along with ministers responsible for internal affairs, migration and asylum, and other key departments. The discussions will revolve around the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights regarding Greece’s alleged illegal “pushbacks” of asylum seekers.
A Turkish citizen’s complaint highlighted that she was returned to Turkey against her will before she could file an asylum application. The court ruled in her favour, awarding her compensation of €20,000 from the Greek state. The individual had fled Turkey in 2019 due to accusations of being affiliated with the Gülen movement, which was linked to a failed coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in 2016. This case emphasises the dangerous situations refugees face, prompting them to seek safety in Greece.
Despite the court’s findings, Greek authorities continue to assert that pushbacks do not occur. The European Court of Human Rights maintains that these actions are systematic, marking the first condemnation of Greece for such practices. The court’s ruling also highlights a violation of the European Convention on Human Rights, which has been welcomed by various refugee organisations. The Greek Refugee Council legally represented the plaintiff, underlining the broader support for human rights in these cases.
In related news, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) reported that 239,000 illegal border crossings into the EU were recorded in 2024, with women making up about ten per cent of those crossings. The majority of refugees (62%) sought entry through the Eastern Mediterranean route, with a notable increase in individuals fleeing from Afghanistan and Syria. This statistic draws attention to the ongoing migration challenges and raises questions regarding the effectiveness of European border management strategies.
The involvement of EU authorities is critical in addressing the humanitarian issues at the Aegean Sea, where many refugees attempt to cross to find safety. As the EU Commission, led by Interior Commissioner Ylva Johansson, continues to explore these matters, the impact of EU funds allocated for border management must also be scrutinised.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal issues associated with the practice of pushbacks in Greece?
The use of pushbacks in Greece raises several important legal concerns. International law, including the Geneva Convention, prohibits the forced return of individuals to countries where they face danger. In addition, the European Union’s asylum policies require member states to provide fair processes for individuals seeking refuge. Violations of these laws can lead to serious consequences for Greece and its officials.
How is the EU Commissioner responding to the issue of pushbacks in Greece?
The EU Commissioner is actively investigating the situation regarding pushbacks in Greece. They are gathering information to assess the human rights conditions for migrants and asylum seekers. The Commissioner aims to ensure that EU laws are upheld and that Greece addresses any identified issues effectively.
What are the implications for human rights regarding pushback practices in Greece?
Pushbacks in Greece can have significant human rights implications. Many individuals affected may experience violence, detention, and violations of their rights to seek asylum. Such actions further exacerbate the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, leading to broader concerns within the international community about Greece’s commitment to human rights standards.
What actions is the Greek government taking to align with international laws?
The Greek government is reportedly implementing measures to comply with international asylum law. This includes policies to improve the treatment of migrants and ensuring access to legal processes. Ongoing training for border officials and engagement with international human rights organisations are also part of the efforts to align with established norms.
How are pushback actions monitored and documented in the EU?
Within the EU, pushback actions are closely monitored and documented by various agencies. The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) conducts investigations and compiles reports on border practices, including pushbacks. Non-governmental organisations also play a vital role in documenting these incidents and raising public awareness about violations.
What consequences might Greece face for breaching EU asylum regulations?
If Greece is found to violate EU asylum policies through pushbacks, it may face several repercussions. These could include legal actions from the EU, financial penalties, or a loss of support for migration management. Furthermore, continued violations could harm Greece’s reputation within the EU and affect its relationship with other member states.
