Athens protest over unfair treatment of migrants

Rescue groups supporters and refugees held the demonstration in central Athens to highlight what they call the increasing criminalization of sea rescues and the antimigration policies of some EU countries. Some of the protesters lay down in front of banners that read “WOULD YOU SAVE US” to bring attention to the problems of the thousands of people who die each year trying to reach Europe. The predominant colour was Orange, the reference to the lifejackets usually worn by migrants picked up in the Mediterranean. The rally on Athens which is one event in a series across Europe organised by the international movement “Sea Bridge”. The movement is calling the establishment of safe roofs for refugees, safe harbours, an end to the criminalization of sea rescues and human condition for refugees upon arrival. Some also called for the release of prominent Syrian refugees Sarah Mardini and the Irish volunteer Shawn Binded can clean Greek custody for allegedly facilitating refugees and migrants into Greece.