At least 359 people were subjected to Informal Forced Returns (IFRs) by the Greek authorities between 2023 and 2025, according to the 2025 Annual Report by the Recording Mechanism of the Greek National Commission for Human Rights (GNCHR). The report is based on 23 first-hand testimonies concerning 21 IFR incidents.
The GNCHR notes that IFRs include “both alleged pushbacks of asylum seekers and refugees and any other form of forced removal of third-country nationals from Greek territory that is reportedly carried out irregularly and summarily, without the legally prescribed procedures being followed.”
The testimonies documented by the Recording Mechanism state that “both uniformed officers and individuals in civilian clothing were involved as perpetrators.”
Among the 359 people were at least 94 women, 90 children and 42 members of vulnerable groups, against whom punitive violence was reportedly used.
Some testimonies concerning incidents in the Evros region stated that, during the removal of people from Greek territory, third-country nationals who spoke the languages of the alleged victims were also involved. They reportedly acted in cooperation with, or under the instructions of, uniformed personnel.
According to testimonies concerning the 11 incidents recorded in the Evros region between 2023 and 2025, the number of people identified in these incidents is estimated at no fewer than 62.
According to testimonies concerning the 10 maritime incidents recorded between 2023 and 2025, the number of people identified in these incidents is estimated at no fewer than 310.
Source: Εφ.Συν.
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