Fire at Greece's Largest Refugee Camp... 'European Refugee Policy Likely to Be Debated'

Fire at Moria Refugee Center on Lesbos Island, Greece
Arson Suspected by Refugees Protesting COVID-19 Quarantine Policy

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] A fire broke out at Greece's largest refugee facility, leaving thousands of refugees without shelter.

On the 9th (local time), a fire occurred at the Moria Refugee Center on Lesbos Island, Greece, forcing refugees to evacuate urgently. Although there were no reported casualties, the refugees lost their place to stay. The Moria Refugee Center was notorious for overcrowding and poor conditions.

This refugee center had implemented quarantine measures after a refugee from Somalia was confirmed to be infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Notably, the fire broke out simultaneously in multiple locations, and it is reported that refugees obstructed firefighting efforts. It is presumed that refugees opposing the quarantine measures set the fire.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis declared a state of emergency across Lesbos Island. Prime Minister Mitsotakis instructed that "refugees should not leave Lesbos Island to be sent to mainland Greece." He stated, "While we are aware of the poor conditions at the Moria refugee camp, no tolerance will be given to violent responses at a time when health measures are necessary." He added, "Movement restrictions and regional lockdown measures will be implemented," and "local residents are expected to understand and comply."

After the fire broke out, refugees reportedly fled to the hills surrounding the refugee camp. The fire continued for more than 12 hours, making firefighting efforts difficult.

The Moria Refugee Center on Lesbos Island, Greece, completely destroyed by fire [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

The European Union (EU) plans to take measures to relocate unaccompanied children and youth to facilities on the Greek mainland in connection with this incident.

Foreign media are paying attention to the fact that this incident occurred just weeks before a European Commission (EC) meeting to revise refugee-related policies. Some have suggested that the poor conditions at the Moria Refugee Center might have been deliberately worsened to discourage refugees from attempting to enter Europe.

On the 9th (local time), refugees are escaping from the Moria camp to avoid the fire. [Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Greece is also expressing difficulties. A Greek government official stated, "Greece is facing a humanitarian crisis," and "We have done everything we can." The Moria refugee camp is a facility designed to accommodate 4,000 people, but it is reported that the number of residents reached 13,000. Due to this, there have been difficulties in accessing adequate water facilities and other necessities.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.