UNHCR: 6 steps towards solving the refugee situation in Europe

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling on the Greek Government to urgently improve conditions and expand reception capacity, following a recent rise in arrivals at Evros via the land border with Turkey. Hundreds of people are at present being held in police detention facilities.

UNHCR, UNICEF launch Blue Dot hubs to boost protection for children and families on the move across Europe

UNHCR will support Greece in developing its asylum reception capacity through European Union-funded rent subsidies and host family programmes. (UNHCR)

UNHCR warns of imminent humanitarian crisis in Greece amid disarray in Europe over asylum

UNHCR very concerned by reports from asylum seekers of sexual harassment and violence in sub-standard reception centres on the Greek islands, despite welcomed Government measures to address overcrowding and dire living conditions.

UNHCR urges Greece to accelerate emergency measures to address conditions on Samos and Lesvos. Greek authorities must take urgent steps to address the humanitarian situation for around 11,000 asylum-seekers on the islands of Samos and Lesvos. Conditions in the Reception and Identification Centers (RICs) on the two islands are abhorrent.

UNHCR is working with the Hellenic Coast Guard to facilitate the deployment of experienced life guards and equipment to support rescue efforts at sea. (UNHCR)

UNHCR is calling on the Greek Government to continue easing pressure on Lesvos, Chios and Samos, by further shortening procedures for people eligible to move, and urgently improving conditions for those who continue to stay.

UNHCR has deployed 120 emergency staff to Greece to support the government in its effort to address the continuing crisis. (UNHCR)