EU's High-Tech Refugee Camps in Greece Draw Human Rights Concerns

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Recent investigations have revealed that the European Union-funded refugee camps in Greece, specifically in Samos, Kos, and Leros, operate under stringent surveillance measures that raise serious human rights concerns. Established in response to the 2020 refugee crisis, these camps are equipped with advanced technology, including AI-powered security cameras and drones that monitor residents continuously.

In October 2023, Palestinian and Syrian refugees staged protests amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. During these demonstrations, security systems detected the unrest, triggering lockdowns without police intervention. Critics argue that the invasive surveillance violates residents' privacy rights and undermines fundamental freedoms as the camps impose strict internal regulations, with penalties ranging from food deprivation to expulsion.

Interviews with residents highlight harsh living conditions, compounded by a lack of basic services despite the camps' technological focus. Reportedly, the facilities face disrepair and resource shortages while heavily investing in monitoring systems. Moreover, recent fines imposed by the Greek Data Protection Authority suggest systemic failures to comply with data protection regulations, drawing attention to a lack of transparency regarding data collection and usage practices.

Rights defenders stress the importance of responsiveness towards humanitarian needs rather than stringent control measures in a context where refugee populations are already vulnerable. The situation in these camps illustrates broader issues surrounding migration policy in Europe.

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