1 018 drift-backs in the Aegean Sea
20.7.2022
Question for written answer E-002668/2022
to the Commission
Rule 138
Erik Marquardt (Verts/ALE)
Forensic Architecture recently revealed that the Hellenic Coast Guard, sometimes with the assistance of Frontex, has carried out 1 018 ‘drift-backs’ in the Aegean Sea[1]. Despite the evidence piling up, the Commission has been disproportionately silent and vague in its response to the situation at the Greek borders, creating the impression of attempting to cover for the Greek authorities rather than acting as guardian of the Treaties.
- 1.Does the Commission, together with Frontex, plan to take any action regarding the listed cases or does it expect the Greek National Transparency Authority to independently examine them?
- 2.Does it take into consideration the conflict of interest in handling the systematic human rights violations attributed to the Hellenic Government, given the party’s affiliation to Vice-President Margaritis Schinas who is in charge of the Promoting our European Way of Life portfolio in the College of Commissioners?
- 3.Does it finally acknowledge the frequent and severe human rights violations taking place at the Greek borders, following the long list of evidence published by a variety of established actors?
- [1] https://forensic-architecture.org/investigation/drift-backs-in-the-aegean-sea
Last updated: 4 August 2022