'Politically motivated' trial of migrant rescuers threatens aid work, rights groups warn

Greek island of Lesbos in 2018It is believed to be the first time humanitarian workers have been prosecuted for rescuing migrants at sea.

Human rights groups claim the charges are distorted and false and that their actions are protected by international law. But many search and rescue operations in Lesbos have been suspended as the case is heard, out of fear rescuers could be jailed for their actions.premiere at Toronto International Film Festival During their second attempt to reach Europe, thy got on board a dinghy with 18 others, which began to fill with water.

Sarah later returned to Lesbos to volunteer with other asylum seekers, leading to her arrest in 2018. Her sister competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics as part of the Refugee Team.Human Rights Watch said convictions for the accused would “set a terrible precedent” for humanitarian rescues. Concerns have also been raised about the nature of the trial itself, with Mr Van Esveld alleging that the case has “real due process and fair trial issues”.

“What’s happening is showing the lengths the Greek authorities will go to deter humanitarian assistance and discourage refugees from seeking sanctuary on their shores. It’s the Greek authorities in this case, but it’s a Europe-wide issue.”Migrants trying to reach Europe frequently travel from Turkey to Greece on small boats operated by smugglers, due to the relatively narrow expanse of sea between the Turkish coast and some Greek islands.

Amnesty International has also also criticised the bid to prosecute the rescuers. Giorgos Kosmopoulos, senior campaigner on migration, said the organisation was “very very concerned”.: “Some who want to do this work will think twice. Even the prospect of being prosecuted by police and not ending up in prison – which unfortunately is a realistic prospect for Sarah and Sean – is enough to put people off.

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