The EU border agency is investigating Greece for violations of refugee rights.

Greece became the target of international criticism following the sinking of a migrant boat off its southern coast in 2023, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people.

The European Union's border protection agency (Frontex) announced that it is investigating numerous incidents in which Greece is alleged to have violated human rights in its efforts to stop migrants. Frontex stated that it is examining 12 serious incidents, most of which are claimed to have occurred in 2024, but did not provide further details. Frontex spokesperson Chris Borowski mentioned that the agency has recently strengthened its complaint mechanism. The spokesperson said, "There are currently 12 active serious incident reports concerning Greece being reviewed by the Fundamental Rights Office. Each one is being examined in detail." No response has yet come from the Greek government. Greece has been subject to increased international scrutiny following the migrant boat sinking off its southern coast in 2023, and has also faced criticism from human rights groups related to this incident. In a ruling made in January, the European Court of Human Rights reported that Greece has turned its expulsion method known as 'pushback' against migrants into a systematic practice. The Greek government denies these allegations, arguing that its coast guard has rescued more than 250,000 migrants who were involved in maritime accidents or in distress, and that it operates within the framework of laws and international obligations. The government claims that it actively prevents illegal crossings to the eastern islands, which are a significant entry point for illegal migration into the European Union, but states that it does not carry out sudden expulsions.