In a recent review, the United Nations Human Rights Committee expressed concerns over Greece’s approach to gender-based violence, migrant pushbacks, and rights abuses. While Greece received praise for initiatives aimed at protecting unaccompanied minors, the UN raised questions about protections for other vulnerable groups and systemic issues within the country.
The Committee addressed significant gaps in Greece’s response to gender-based violence. It questioned the absence of a coordinated national strategy and highlighted Greek law 4800/2021, which allows domestic violence offenders to retain child custody until conviction. The UN questioned why femicide remains unclassified as a distinct crime under Greek law. In response, Greece’s delegation pointed to initiatives like a public hotline, metro platform awareness campaigns, and a mobile app “panic button.” However, Greece’s representatives offered limited details on restricting parental rights for domestic abusers.
Allegations of migrant pushbacks along Greece’s borders sparked pointed questioning. According to reports, over 1,400 pushback incidents affecting nearly 47,000 people took place from 2020 to 2024, involving violence, detention, and theft of personal belongings. The Committee urged Greece to conduct independent investigations, citing the need for border control practices that prioritize life. Greece, however, denied these claims, asserting compliance with international obligations and noting that its Coast Guard has rescued thousands of people.
The Committee also raised issues surrounding the treatment of Roma communities, overcrowded migrant centers, and concerns over police violence. The UN’s Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture recently completed a 12-day review of Greek facilities, including prisons, youth detention centers, and psychiatric institutions. The subcommittee deemed further measures necessary to protect detainees from torture and ill-treatment, with a report and recommendations expected soon.
The UN is urging Greece to strengthen protections for marginalized groups and honour its commitments to international human rights laws.