Information
Publications
Study:
Study: A legal vacuum – the systematic criminalisation of migrants for driving a boat or car to Greece
The fight against migrant smuggling has been a top priority of European migration policy since 2015, with a vast amount of resources being invested into this policy goal. This study gives new and in-depth insights about the criminalisation of people on the move for “smuggling” in Greece, analysing the current legal framework as well as its practical enforcement.
For the study, we examined a total of 81 trials of 95 people who were arrested and tried in Greece for smuggling in eight different locations, namely in Komotini, Thessaloniki, Rhodes, Samos, Lesvos, Crete, Syros and Kalamata.
(PDF | 3 MB)
Report:
The criminalisation of boat drivers in Spain and Canary Islands
In Spain, despite the fact that between 200 and 300 people are imprisoned every year, the criminalisation of so-called ‘boat drivers’ is a relatively unknown reality. However, thanks to the work of activists, we now have information that reveals the main features of the practice of criminalising of boat drivers in Spain, especially in the Canary Islands.
As part of the Patrones Project, we have prepared the following report of the information available.
(PDF | 3 MB)
Context
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JOINT STATEMENT AGAINST GREEK STATE PRACTICE: DENIAL OF ACCESS TO ASYLUM FOR ALLEGED DRIVERS/FACILITATORS
Greece has been denying access to international protection procedure those accused of facilitating migrants’ unauthorised entry. As civil society, we call for unhindered access to the asylum procedure for everyone.
What is the impact of criminalization on asylum?
Criminalisation of asylum seekers not only violates the international conventions, but has severe consequences for their ability to access protection. Learn more about it.
Why are Minors Tried as Adults in Greece?
We are currently witnessing countless Sudanese minors being tried as adults in Greece: This injustice stems from several key issues.
Plea Deals in Greece: Quick Convictions Instead of Fair Trials
More and more trials involving accusations of “smuggling” now end with so-called “plea deals.” This supposed compromise comes with a rarely discussed catch..
“EU: Stop criminalising migration in the Facilitator’s Package law” – Joint statement
11.03.25 – 110 civil society organizations strongly condem the proposed reforms to the so-called “Facilitators Package” and reject Europol Regulation.
