Irregular Migrants

The Court observed that criminal proceedings had been instituted against the coastguards involved in the events in question. Such proceedings were in principle capable of shedding light on the circumstances of the case and leading to the establishment of the facts and, where appropriate, the punishment of those responsible.

European Council on Refugees and Exiles: Country Report: Access to the territory and push backs

Legal ways of accessing the Greek territory are not provided for persons in need of international protection, nor does Greece issue visas for humanitarian reasons.

Since the start of the year, the Greek Government has further obstructed access to asylum for most migrants seeking protection in Greece, through the implementation of unfair policies and dysfunctional asylum procedures. In stark contrast to the opening of borders to Ukrainian nationals, evidence continues to emerge showing that Greek authorities systematically perpetrate violent and illegal pushbacks in the Aegean, with the complicity of EU institutions and agencies.