The Greek Government plans to install a floating barrier at its sea border in the Mediterranean in order to deter arrivals from Turkey to the Aegean islands. A call for tender was recently issued for this purpose, with an expected cost of EUR 500 000.

By preventing vessels from reaching Greek territorial waters, this project undermines access to the European asylum system and seems to run contrary to the principle of non-refoulement. In addition, the barrier may seriously harm the safety of vessels in the area and impede effective search and rescue operations. The Greek Government therefore risks endangering the lives of people in distress by constructing such a physical barrier. In this context:

What is the Commission’s assessment of the compatibility of this floating barrier with EU law and European fundamental rights, in particular with regard to the ‘non-refoulement’ principle and the right to life?

Can the Commission confirm that it will not in any event provide EU funding for the construction of the barrier?

Which measures will the Commission take in order to prevent Greece from violating European law and fundamental rights by constructing the barrier?