For years, Greek authorities have carried out a systematic campaign to intimidate, criminalise, and silence those who expose human rights violations, illegal pushbacks, and the ill-treatment of vulnerable people at Europe’s maritime borders.
Aegean Boat Report, along with other frontline defenders, has been deliberately targeted:
- Investigated repeatedly
- Publicly discredited
- Threatened with prosecution
- In some cases, individuals have even faced arrest warrants
This is no coincidence. It is a calculated government strategy designed to isolate and weaken organisations that shine a light on violations the authorities want hidden.
A New Phase in Silencing Civil Society
The latest statements by Minister of Migration and Asylum Thanos Plevris mark an escalation. The government has announced plans for “administrative controls” on NGOs — including the power to deregister organisations that challenge migration policies or promote “alternative approaches.”
This is not just about regulation.
It is about control.
The aim is clear: to intimidate NGOs into silence and ensure fewer organisations dare to expose illegal and inhumane practices.
A Divide-and-Isolate Strategy
For years, while frontline watchdogs and whistleblowers were being criminalised, many larger NGOs remained silent — fearful that standing in solidarity would jeopardise their ability to work in Greece.
Some severed communication with organisations like ABR entirely, hoping to “stay out of trouble.”
The result? Watchdogs were isolated, their work made harder, and government pressure became even more effective.
Now, the same strategy that targeted a few is being extended to everyone.
Even NGOs that once avoided “rocking the boat” are at risk if they challenge government policies or take legal action against unlawful practices.
A Chilling Effect on Democracy
This escalating crackdown has a profound chilling effect on democratic principles:
- Freedom of association is under attack
- Human rights defenders are intimidated into silence
- Civil society is weakened, divided, and afraid to act
This Trump-like approach — punishing anyone who dares to criticise the authorities — threatens not only the rights of refugees and migrants but also the health of democracy itself in Greece.
ABR’s Position
Aegean Boat Report will not be silenced.
We will continue to:
- Document what others try to hide
- Expose illegal pushbacks and abuses
- Stand with every organisation and individual committed to defending human rights, transparency, and the rule of law
Silencing NGOs does not make violations disappear.
It only makes them harder to prove — and easier to repeat.
We call on the European Commission, international partners, and the global human rights community to act now:
Protect civil society. Defend democratic freedoms. Hold Greece accountable.