Migrant Protesters Confront Greek Minister

Migrants block the entrance of the Hellinikon camp in Athens in protest at poor living con
LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP/Getty Images

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greek and refugee protesters have confronted the country’s migration minister at the entrance of a sprawling migrant camp in the south of Athens, trying to stop him from entering the site.

Police surrounded the minister, Yannis Mouzalas, as he ecountered dozens of demonstrators at the Elliniko camp, located at a disused airport that also includes sporting venues built for the 2004 Athens Olympics.

The protest was organized against conditions at the camp. Mouzalas eventually entered the camp and spoke to migrants. He insisted the facilities were adequate and accused one group protesters of staging a “fake” hunger strike.

Greece says more than 60,000 refugees and migrants are stranded in camps here after European border closures last year.

COMMENTS

Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.