The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, has expressed serious concerns over Greece’s handling of migration and the human rights of Roma communities following his visit to the country from February 3-7.
During his visit, O’Flaherty placed particular focus on the tragic Pylos shipwreck of June 14, 2023, which led to the deaths of over 560 people.
A recent investigation by the Greek Ombudsman, found “serious and reprehensible omissions” in the Hellenic Coast Guard’s search and rescue response, suggesting a failure to protect lives. Survivor testimonies claim the Coast Guard attempted to tow the vessel, causing it to capsize, before failing to act swiftly to rescue those drowning. The Greek authorities have provided conflicting accounts, alternately denying, admitting, and deflecting accusations regarding their role in the shipwreck.
O’Flaherty met with the Greek Ombudsman, survivors, lawyers, and NGOs, urging the government to take “resolute action” to ensure full criminal and disciplinary accountability for those responsible. He also raised alarm over ongoing reports of illegal pushbacks at Greece’s land and sea borders, calling for a “zero-tolerance approach” and independent human rights monitoring.
With new migrant routes emerging in Crete and Rhodes and overcrowding in reception centers, he called for improved facilities and the swift relocation of unaccompanied minors to the mainland.
O’Flaherty also focused on the conditions faced by Roma communities, particularly in Thessaloniki and Halandri. While welcoming Greece’s National Strategy for Roma Inclusion, he stressed the need for better implementation at the local level and greater participation of Roma communities in shaping policies. He observed dire living conditions and persistent discrimination, urging Europe to “wake up” to the human rights challenges faced by Roma populations.
The Commissioner’s concerns come amid growing scrutiny of police violence against Roma in Greece. The Panhellenic Confederation of Greek Roma has accused the police of systemic discrimination following three killings of Roma men by police in recent years. There have also been widespread protests across Greece, with activists condemning what they describe as a pattern of racist policing.
O’Flaherty’s visit also highlighted broader concerns about Greece’s deteriorating press freedom and rule of law, echoing a damning resolution passed by the European Parliament in February 2024. That resolution equated Greece’s democratic backsliding with Viktor Orbán’s Hungary, citing serious threats to media independence and fundamental rights.
The European Parliament resolution condemned the Greek government’s failure to make progress in the case of Giorgos Karaivaz, an investigative journalist who was assassinated in April 2021 while reporting on organized crime. MEPs also denounced physical threats and verbal attacks against journalists—including from high-ranking politicians—as well as breaches of privacy through surveillance software and abusive lawsuits targeting media professionals.
O’Flaherty warned that increasing pressure on journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society organizations is eroding the rule of law in Greece. He urged authorities to ensure thorough investigations into human rights violations and protect the fundamental freedoms of the press.
During his visit, O’Flaherty met with key Greek ministers, government officials, EU representatives, and human rights organizations. He reiterated the need for Greece to uphold its human rights commitments, calling for accountability in both migration policies and the treatment of marginalized communities.
