Jesuit Priests call for action concerning refugees after Pope's visit to Lesbos
Following Pope Francis' visit to Lesbos, the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) has written four proposals to aid refugees stranded in Greece.
The JRS, who were present when Pope Francis visited Lesbos and the Moria refugee camp, have called for the acceleration of the resettlement and for family reunification in all European countries for the 55,000 refugees in 40 camps across Greece.
They drew attention to the fact that refugees are currently in limbo, living in fear of deportation to Turkey, and subsequently called for a revision of the Turkey-European Union accord of March 18.
This is a suggestion that has been also made by a number of NGOs and UN bodies.
In connection with this, the JRS asked what will happen to those who are deported from Greece to Turkey.
A statement from the group said that it hoped "That the large question mark which remains over those persons returned to the camps in Turkey is addressed. There is no information and no possibility of follow-up, even by the UN. It is essential to guarantee that their fundamental rights are respected and to ensure their access to proper legal protection."
The JRS also called for better collaboration between Greek authorities, the UNHCR and NGOs, "so that all essential services may be provided, but also in order to ensure the protection and education of children".
Pope Francis visited Lesbos earlier this month "to shed light on the major humanitarian problem" presented by the refugee crisis.
While there, he greeted hundreds of refugees. "I want to tell you that you are not alone," he told them.
"In these weeks and months, you have endured much suffering in your search for a better life. Many of you felt forced to flee situations of conflict and persecution for the sake, above all, of your children, your little ones."