A Greek court acquitted 24 aid workers on March 14, 2024, who had faced serious charges related to their efforts in rescuing migrants at sea. The defendants, including well-known refugee advocate Sara Mardini, had been on trial for facilitating illegal entry, money laundering, and membership in a criminal organization. If convicted, they could have faced up to 20 years in prison. This case has been widely condemned by human rights organizations as a troubling attempt to criminalize humanitarian rescue efforts.
The trial took place on the island of Lesbos, a significant location during the migrant crisis of 2015-2016, where countless volunteers provided assistance to individuals fleeing conflict and poverty. The prosecution of these aid workers is seen as part of a broader strategy by Greek authorities and other European leaders to deter a resurgence of migrant arrivals that characterized the earlier crisis.
During the court proceedings, defense lawyers Zacharias Kesses and Evita Papakiriakidou argued that the intentions of the aid workers were purely humanitarian, emphasizing their commitment to saving lives rather than engaging in criminal activity. The criminal court in Lesbos ultimately sided with the defendants, stating that their actions were not criminal in nature.
Kesses described the ruling as a “courageous decision”, highlighting the importance of humanitarian work in the face of legal challenges. The acquittal has been met with relief among rights advocates, who view it as a significant victory for those dedicated to providing aid in perilous situations.
Despite the court’s decision, the broader context of hostility towards migrants and aid workers remains. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in legal actions against individuals and organizations involved in rescue operations in the Mediterranean. This trend raises concerns about the future of humanitarian efforts in the region.
Court officials have not yet released a formal written statement regarding the verdict. Nonetheless, the outcome is viewed as a reaffirmation of the necessity of humanitarian aid in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by migrants. The case of the 24 aid workers serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting those who risk their lives to assist others in distress.
