Trial of aid workers accused of facilitating illegal entry of migrants into Greece set to begin

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Helena Smith in AthensDecember 3, 2025 at 04:45 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

Twenty-four former aid workers are set to stand trial on Lesbos, Greece, accused of facilitating illegal entry of migrants and other crimes. The trial, beginning seven years after their arrests, involves volunteers from the now-dissolved ERCI search-and-rescue organization. Charges range from membership in a criminal organization to money laundering, with potential prison sentences of up to 20 years. The case has drawn international attention, with human rights defenders like Sarah Mardini, of "The Swimmers" fame, expected to testify. Rights groups, including Amnesty International, criticize the accusations and see the trial as part of a broader effort to criminalize humanitarian assistance on Lesbos, which was a key entry point for refugees during the 2015 crisis.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Zacharias Kesses 50% Syria ×250% Lesbos ×460% Greece ×370% Sarah Mardini ×480%

Keywords

aid workers 100% migrants 90% illegal entry 80% humanitarian assistance 70% greece 70% lesbos 70% refugee crisis 60% criminalisation 50% human rights 50% trial 40%