The Role Played by Non-Governmental Organisations in the Protection of Refugee Women in Greece

Although the refugee and migration crisis in Greece has intensified over the last decade, its gender dimensions are often overlooked. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Greece, however, have initiated efforts to address the rights and needs of refugee women. Despite being a prominent host nation for refugees, Greece faces challenges compounded by the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and its role as the primary EU entry point during the 2015-2016 refugee crisis. The 2020 Greek asylum law and subsequent revisions have reduced safeguards for asylum seekers, disproportionately impacting marginalized groups such as women. Due to the Greek government’s limited resources and shifting policies, NGOs play an essential role in supporting refugees. By examining existing policies, this study analyses Greece’s approach to supporting refugee women by focusing on the roles of government and non-governmental organisations. It identifies the challenges these women face and why NGOs play a central role in their aid. Drawing from recent field research in Athens and Lesbos Island, this study adopts a qualitative approach, primarily relying on interviews conducted with 30 refugees, experts on migration, and NGO members. Secondary data was gathered from articles, books, and official websites of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the European Commission, and the European Council on Refugees and Exiles. The findings reveal a lack of support structures for refugee women, which exposes them to a number of challenges including inadequate reception facilities, limited healthcare access, financial constraints, and integration hurdles. This study highlights the limited cooperation between the Greek government and NGOs, exacerbated by recent restrictions on NGO operations. Understanding these issues is crucial for collaborative efforts to address the specific needs and challenges faced by refugee women in Greece.