NGO Workers on Trial in Major Greek Border Security Case
5th December 2025
The long-awaited trial of 24 humanitarian workers on Lesbos has begun, marking a significant moment in Greece’s effort to strengthen border security during years of intense migration pressure.
The defendants, active on the island between 2016 and 2021, face serious charges—including participation in a criminal organisation, facilitating the illegal entry of third-country nationals, and money laundering—offences that carry sentences of up to 20 years.
Greek authorities argue that the case centres on safeguarding the country’s borders at a time when Lesbos had become a major gateway for irregular migration. Officials maintain that strict enforcement is necessary both to protect national security and to curb smuggling networks that profit from dangerous sea crossings.