The Council of Europe commissioner for human rights raised concerns Tuesday regarding Greece’s treatment of migrants and the human rights of Roma communities. The statement comes after the commissioner concluded a visit to Greece earlier this month.
Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty met with Greek officials, NGOs, and affected individuals to investigate reports of migrant pushbacks, poor living conditions in refugee camps, and systemic discrimination against Roma communities. His visit aimed to evaluate Greece’s handling of asylum seekers, border operations, and the protection of vulnerable populations, amid ongoing allegations of human rights violations.
The Commissioner acknowledged the challenges Greece faces due to its geographical position and the evolving migration routes, which have led to increased arrivals of asylum seekers and migrants. He noted the persistently insufficient levels of European solidarity in addressing these challenges. Despite these difficulties, he commended the Greek authorities for their cautious approach regarding the status of Syrian asylum seekers.
A focal point of the Commissioner’s visit was the Pylos shipwreck of June 2023, where an estimated 750 people lost their lives. He met with the Greek Ombudsman, who had completed a report on the actions and omissions of Coast Guard members during the incident. The Commissioner urged Greek authorities to ensure accountability for any human rights violations committed at the borders and to implement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. Additionally, Commissioner O’Flaherty expressed concern over the human rights situation of Roma communities in Greece. He highlighted the need for intensified efforts to honor their rights, emphasizing that Roma individuals continue to face significant challenges, including discrimination and social exclusion. The Commissioner called on Greek authorities to take concrete steps to improve Roma communities’ living conditions and integration. These concerns are not isolated. In January 2025, the European Court of Human Rights found Greece guilty of systematically pushing back asylum seekers, ordering compensation for a woman who was forcibly expelled to Türkiye.
