Presentation on the Recording Mechanism of Incidents of Informal Forced Returns to students of the Master Program “Advanced International and European Studies” of the Faculty of Law of the Democritus University of Thrace

The Greek National Commission for Human Rights (GNCHR), following the invitation of Dr. Christos Tsevas, Adjunct Lecturer, in the context of the course “International Refugee Law” of the Master Program “Advanced International and European Studies” of the Faculty of Law (Department of International Studies) of the Democritus University of Thrace, held an online training on Thursday, January 30, 2025, with Mr. Ilias Tsampardoukas, Supervisor of the GNCHR Recording Mechanism of Incidents of Informal Forced Returns.

The Recording Mechanism aims to monitor, record and report informal forced return incidents of third country nationals from Greece to other countries. It seeks to promote and consolidate respect of the principle of non-refoulement as well as to safeguard guarantees and compliance with legal procedures. Moreover, the aim of the Recording Mechanism is to boost accountability for reported human rights violations alleged to have occurred during informal forced returns of third country nationals from Greece to other countries.

Through the adoption of a standardized, transparent, and scientific recording methodology, the Recording Mechanism attempts to contribute to increasing the credibility of reported incidents.

The Recording Mechanism operates under common rules applicable by all its members and sets out common goals and objectives reflected in its Founding Act. All members of the Recording Mechanism have adopted its Founding Act, which stipulates their rights and obligations. Each member’s recording officers, whether social, legal, or other scientists, professionals, or volunteers, are designated by the Member and then trained by the Supervisor of the Recording Mechanism.

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The latest reports of the Mechanism are available here