Seebrüecke International condemns criminalisation of protection seekers, supporters

Seebrüecke International has condemned criminalisation of people seeking protection and their supporters in EU member states.

Seebrüecke is an international organization that wants safe passages and an end to criminalisation of civil sea rescue.

The organization in a statement today, September 10, 2024, said: “Trials in Greece or Italy, for example, against people who steer refugee boats are characterised by procedural violations and a lack of evidence. Not only those seeking protection themselves, but also supporters are criminalised in many EU member states.

“Even if they are acquitted, the reputation of organisations is damaged by state attacks. The proceedings, which often last for years, also place an enormous financial and psychological burden on the accused.”

Seebrüecke International noted that the EU Directive on the facilitation of unauthorised entry is used to prosecute refugees or supporters.

“It is clear to us that a revised directive must be fully in line with the UN Smuggling Protocol as well as international human rights and refugee law.

“Humanitarian aid and support are an expression of humanity and a vibrant civil society and should not be criminalised.”

The organisation appealed to the Federal Government to advocate the following points in the upcoming negotiations:

1. A clear definition of the criminal offence of aiding and abetting illegal entry on condition of unjustified financial or material enrichment

2. An explicit, comprehensive and binding exception for humanitarian aid and measures that serve to protect human rights
3. Decriminalisation of people seeking protection and their family members
4. Removal of the new offence of public incitement

5. Human rights impact assessment in advance

“Criminalisation of flight leads to more suffering and deaths. Ultimately, safe and legal means of fleeing are the only way to effectively prevent the exploitation of people on the move.

“We therefore appeal with 14 other organisations to Nancy Faeser to ensure that the newly revised directive does not become a further step towards the abolition of human rights and rule of law principles.”