Dear supporters,
The Aegean islands are at breaking point. Turkey’s recent action to ‘open’ their side of the border to Greece, has prompted not only panic and confusion among those trying to move, but also a terrifying response from Greek forces.
Among other reports, a video has emerged of the Greek coastguard shooting at, attacking and intimidating those on an inflatable boat off the shore of Lesvos. A child drowned on Monday, while a group of people attempted a boat crossing from Turkey. NGOs and volunteers have been experiencing intimidation, threats and attacks. 42,800 people are being accommodated in overflowing camps and centres across all the Greek islands, which have an overall actual capacity of just 8,816.
This is a terrifying situation for anyone to live through, but especially for a child travelling alone. Over 1,800 unaccompanied children are trapped on the Aegean islands. We need to continue to make our voices heard and keep this on the agenda for them.
Some things you can do to help:
- Help increase awareness by viewing and sharing this article: https://www.itv.com/news/2020-03-02/greek-coast-guard-fire-warning-shots-towards-migrant-boat/
- Please also sign and share this petition asking EU countries to help decongest the Greek islands: https://www.change.org/p/charles-michel-europe-must-act-now-for-the-immediate-decongestion-of-the-aegean-islands-37ac8a88-cf7e-4ce2-9a98-1b2969f1bda4
You can also see this open letter from numerous organisations on the ground, asking EU countries to step in to relocate unaccompanied minors: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5c2531f131d4dfb9bfbd68af/t/5e5e5f32c1c41e0948d61f97/1583243066636/Joint+Call+to+Action+-+European+Relocation+of+Unaccompanied+Children.pdf
It can be easy to feel helpless, especially at times like this, but remember that our voices are louder and stronger together. Knowing that you all exist gives me strength and hope.
(And don’t forget to keep sharing our petition too – let’s keep the pressure on!)
Thank you all!
Love and solidarity – Melissa x