Greece may soon face disciplinary action from the European Union for its treatment of migrants, according to a top official from Frontex, the EU’s border agency. The agency’s Fundamental Rights Officer, Jonas Grimheden, expressed serious concern about Greece’s repeated illegal pushbacks of migrants, saying that Frontex is running out of patience.
In interviews with Politico and German newspaper Welt, Grimheden said Frontex now has two choices: either suspend its operations in Greece or call on the European Commission to launch infringement proceedings against the country. However, he noted that halting Frontex’s mission could leave Greek border practices unchecked, which may worsen the situation.
Instead, Grimheden is leaning toward asking the European Commission to hold Greece accountable. He emphasized the need for a punishment mechanism, suggesting that Greece’s access to EU border funding should depend on its respect for human rights.
“There must be some kind of punishment,” he said, arguing that the Commission has the power to enforce penalties by linking funding to improvements in migrant treatment.
Greece has long faced criticism from human rights groups over its harsh border policies, particularly pushbacks in the Aegean Sea, where migrants are reportedly forced back into Turkish waters without being allowed to apply for asylum.
Calls for stronger accountability are growing as the EU faces increasing pressure to ensure its member states uphold international law, especially regarding the treatment of migrants and refugees