Summary
In a move to address growing concerns over illegal immigration, Greece has approved a legal reform mandating prison sentences of up to ten years for individuals who facilitate irregular entry into the country. This law was passed by the Greek Parliament with support from the ruling party, New Democracy, against opposition from left-wing parties. The new legislation imposes aggravated sanctions on professionals involved in NGO activities aiding illegal immigration and allows the exclusion of such organizations from the official registry if one of its members is charged. Proponents argue that this reform aims to strengthen border control and combat human trafficking networks operating in the region. Critics, however, see it as a way to deter humanitarian aid organizations dedicated to assisting migrants, particularly given Greece’s role as a major entry point into the European Union for recent years. The law represents part of a broader strategy by the Greek government to address immigration while also facilitating legal migration through measures aimed at sectors with labor shortages such as tourism and construction.
Key Topics
Greece, Government, NGOs
