In late June, Equal Rights Beyond Borders submitted an application for interim measures to the European Court of Human Rights on behalf of ten unaccompanied children detained in deplorable conditions in the so-called “Safe Area” of the Closed/Controlled Access Centre (CCAC) on the island of Kos. The minors—some held for nearly five months—were living in overcrowded, unsanitary, and unsafe conditions, including roach infestations, insufficient food and water, and no access to medical or psychological care.

The Court initiated proceedings and requested information from both Equal Rights and the Greek Government. On 2 July, following submissions from both parties, the Court granted interim measures for all applicants except one, who had meanwhile been transferred to a shelter.

Specifically, the Court instructed Greece to:

• Provide the children with appropriate reception conditions, including adequate food and clean water, new clothing, bed linen, and hygiene products;
• Ensure their access to appropriate medical and psychological care; and
• Facilitate their speedy relocation to shelters or other suitable accommodation, in accordance with Greek law.

This latest ruling builds on previous decisions by the Court addressing the treatment of unaccompanied minors in “Safe Areas” in Greek camps (see, for example, here and here).

“This renewed decision confirms the seriousness of the situation and the Court’s ongoing concern for the rights and welfare of unaccompanied children in Greece,” said Christina Balta, lawyer and Legal Coordinator at Equal Rights’ Kos office. “This is not an isolated incident—Greek authorities have long been aware of these inhumane conditions. The Court’s repeated interventions underscore the systemic nature of the problem, and the urgent need for the Greek government to implement sustainable, rights-compliant solutions for all unaccompanied children.”

Equal Rights remains committed to holding governments accountable and ensuring that the rights of unaccompanied minors are respected across Europe.

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Contact: press@equal-rights.org