Lesbos

Lesbos, a Greek island, is the location where 24 aid workers recently faced trial for their involvement in rescuing migrants between 2015 and 2018 during the European refugee crisis. The aid workers, including Syrian refugee and swimmer Sara Mardini, were accused of human trafficking and facilitating illegal entry into Greece, charges that carried potential prison sentences of up to 20 years. The case has drawn international attention, with human rights groups closely monitoring the proceedings. After a seven-year legal ordeal, a Greek court on Lesbos acquitted all 24 volunteers of all charges. This acquittal is significant as it highlights the legal challenges faced by those providing humanitarian assistance to migrants and refugees and raises questions about the criminalization of rescue efforts.