11 people dead after migrant ship sinks in Greek waters

Coast guard teams launched a search and rescue operation northwest of the island, in what was thought to be the third shipwreck this week involving migrants in Greek waters.

“11 migrants were found dead during a #SAR @HCoastGuard operation off #Antikithira sea area. Another tragedy a few hours after the loss off 3 lives off #Folegandros Island. Safe migration pathways save lives. We all have to work together to ensure that,” IOM Greece tweeted.

11 migrants were found dead during a #SAR @HCoastGuard operation off #Antikithira sea area.

Another tragedy a few hours after the loss off 3 lives off #Folegandros Island.

Safe migration pathways save lives. We all have to work together to ensure that.https://t.co/vx0oenlUhQ

— IOM Greece (@IOMGREECE) December 24, 2021

Greece has had problems with illegal immigration, many of whom transit through Turkey. Greek authorities believe that 90% of illegal immigrants in the EU enter through Greece, many fleeing because of unrest and poverty in the Middle East and Africa.

Several European courts have decreed that Greece is not obeying the minimum standards of treatment for asylum seekers. One of the consequences is that illegal migrants who reach other countries cannot be sent back to Greece. (ILKHA)