Delegation to Lesvos

The criminalisation of migration is a critical issue in Greek and European polity that treats people on the move as criminals instead of individuals seeking refuge or better opportunities. This trend of criminalisation has been particularly significant in Greece, a gateway to Europe since the “migration crisis” of 2015.

The delegation will focus on the following aspects of the “Criminalisation of migration:”

1. Legal Framework: Migrants face strict legal penalties, including detention and deportation. Strict laws also target those who assist migrants or enter the country “irregularly.”
2. Detention Practices: Poor conditions in detention centres raise significant human rights concerns, with inadequate healthcare, sanitation, and legal support.
3. Police Enforcement: Increased policing at borders and within urban areas aims to deter “irregular migration.”
4. Political Rhetoric: Framing migration as a security threat justifies punitive measures and stigmatises migrants.
5. Asylum Processing: Slow and difficult procedures exacerbate vulnerability and uncertainty for asylum seekers.
6. Human Rights Violations: NGOs have reported issues such as restricted asylum access, lack of legal representation, and inhumane treatment.

The delegation will include site visits to crucial migration management facilities in Lesvos, meetings with partner organisations, and workshops to discuss these challenges.

Aegean Migrant Solidarity invites participants to join the 2025 Delegation on the island of Lesvos, Greece.