MSF Alleges Regular Illegal Pushbacks, Including Violence Against Migrants, by Greek Authorities

MSF report reveals recurring illegal deportations, instances of physical assault and sexual violence over past two years; Greek migrant arrivals spike to nearly 30,000 in 2023.

MSF has accused Greek authorities of regularly conducting illegal pushbacks of migrants, citing evidence of violence, physical assault, and sexual violence.
Migrant arrivals in Greece increased sharply in 2023, with a recorded influx of nearly 30,000 compared to 11,000 in the same period the previous year. This surge followed an increase that began in mid-2022.
Despite substantial and credible evidence presented by MSF, Greek authorities, the EU, and its member states have failed to hold perpetrators of the alleged violations accountable.
Uniformed officers and unidentified masked individuals have been implicated in the alleged violations. Victims reported instances of strip searches, intrusive body searches, and assaults.
Over the past two years, MSF has provided emergency medical help to almost 8,000 individuals, including over 1,500 children. Many reported experiencing multiple pushbacks and remaining in cycles of violence upon arrival.