The Greek asylum administration is marked by systemic deficiencies which frequently result in the violation of individual rights of asylum seekers and refugees. We address these administrative malpractices in procedures before Greek appeal bodies, Greek courts and European courts.

Focus: Free legal assistance for minors and youths at risk

In Greece, it is a sad daily routine that children live on the streets or are even detained by authorities, supposedly for their own protection. The European Court of Human Rights has made it clear countless times that this is illegal. With partner organizations, we ensure humane and child-friendly housing and sue Greece before the European Court of Human Rights.

Focus: Freedom for NGOs in Greece

As the situation of asylum seekers continues to deteriorate, those who advocate for their rights have also come under increasing pressure.

Greece’s action to restrict and hinder the work of NGOs is clearly illegal under international law, European law and Greek constitutional law. Three UN Special Rapporteurs have already expressed their concern and reminded Greece of its obligations under international law to respect the freedom of NGOs.

Together with our partner HIAS, we have filed a complaint against the relevant Greek ministerial decisions restricting the freedoms of NGOs. We are currently awaiting the hearing before the Greek Council of State, the highest Greek court. 

In 2021, we offered free legal aid to more than 450 asylum seekers and refugees. In the majority of these cases, our work was successful: Most of our clients were eventually released from detention, granted asylum or another form of protection in Greece, or reunited with their families in other EU countries.

We are determined to continue our work and dedicate our legal expertise to support each individual person in need.