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Misery for Women and Girls in Greece’s Island Paradise

Friday, February 16, 2018 2:41

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Human Wrongs Watch

By Hillary Margolis*, Human Rights Watch*

16 February 2018 — “Refugee women and children face heightened risk of sexual violence amid tensions and overcrowding at reception facilities on Greek islands.”

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Women and girls said they experienced sexual harassment and threat of violence daily, deterring them from leaving their shelters or even going to the bathroom. They expressed little confidence that Greek authorities would help or protect them if they report incidents.

Government Downplays Sexual Violence Risks in Migrant Hotspots

“Cynthia,” 18, from Cameroon, said a male asylum seeker in Moria threatened and assaulted her repeatedly because she identifies as a lesbian and wears clothing that doesn’t conform to gender norms.

“He once pushed me against a tree by the throat,” she said. “I haven’t reported it. I’m afraid … If I report it to the police, maybe they won’t do anything, [but] if he is reprimanded, his friends will come and hurt me.”

In responding to the UNHCR report, the Ministry welcomed proposals to improve conditions in hotspots.

Yet little has been done to implement previous recommendations by Human Rights Watch and other organizations to ensure that even minimum standards – such as adequate lighting, secure shelter and toilets, and effective reporting mechanisms for gender-based violence – are in place.

Every day that the Greek government dodges responsibility for dangerous conditions in hotspots is one more day that women and children are living in misery on Greece’s postcard-perfect vacation islands.

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