Greece is implementing a new policy requiring migrants facing deportation to wear electronic ankle tags. This measure aims to enhance monitoring and expedite the deportation process for individuals whose asylum claims have been definitively rejected. The government states this is part of broader reforms to criminalize non-compliance with deportation orders and manage the influx of migrants.
New Surveillance Measures for Migrants
Migration Minister Thanos Plevris announced that the electronic monitoring system will be in place before the end of the year. Migrants on deportation lists will be fitted with ankle bracelets, similar to those used in criminal cases, for a 30-day compliance period. This initiative is intended to ensure that individuals do not remain in Greece illegally after their asylum applications have been denied and all appeals exhausted.
- Ankle Tags: Migrants facing deportation will be required to wear electronic monitoring devices.
- Purpose: To monitor movements and prevent illegal stays.
- Timeline: Implementation expected before the end of the year.
- Penalties: Non-compliance with deportation orders could lead to mandatory jail terms.
Broader Asylum Policy Changes
The introduction of ankle tags is part of a wider strategy by the Greek government to tighten its asylum policies and border control. This includes a temporary suspension of asylum applications for migrants arriving from North Africa, particularly Libya, to Crete and Gavdos. The government claims this suspension has already led to a significant drop in arrivals.
New legislation is also being prepared that would impose jail terms of up to five years for those entering the country illegally, unless they are fleeing armed conflict and qualify for asylum. The government is also considering offering financial incentives, up to 2,000 euros, for migrants who voluntarily comply with deportation orders.
Concerns and Criticisms
Human rights organizations and legal experts have raised concerns about these new measures. Critics argue that the suspension of asylum processing for certain groups violates EU and international law. There are also accusations of pushbacks at Greece’s land and sea borders, with the EU border agency reviewing several cases of potential human rights violations.
The Greek government maintains that these strict measures are necessary to manage the migration flow and protect national security, especially in light of increased arrivals from North Africa. The minister has described the situation as a "state of emergency" and warned of an "invasion" if Europe does not adopt tougher policies.
Government Justification and Future Outlook
Minister Plevris stated that the electronic monitoring aims to "make it clear that the options have narrowed" for those who defy deportation orders. He also emphasized that the government is trying to strike a balance between respecting migrants’ rights and the needs of the Greek population. The government hopes these measures will speed up deportation procedures, reduce the strain on detention centers, and deter illegal immigration.
Sources
- Greece may extend North Africa asylum ban if migrant flow resurges, Reuters.
- Greece: Migrants on deportation list to wear ankle tags, InfoMigrants.
- Migrants in Greece Set for Deportation Will Wear Ankle Bracelets, The National Herald.
- Greece To Monitor Rejected Asylum Seekers With Electronic Ankle Bracelets ━ The European Conservative, The European Conservative.
- Greece warns of ‘invasion’ as it halts asylum on Med route, BBC.
