Officials urged to address overcrowded prisons
Greece’s top judicial leaders are calling for urgent action regarding conditions at Greek penitentiaries and police detention centers to avert European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) penalties.
In a letter, Supreme Court President Ioanna Klapa and prosecutor Georgia Adeilini urge judges to expedite pending prisoner cases amid fears that overcrowding and inadequate space may lead to significant state compensations.
By early 2025, the ECHR is set to review 1,287 claims by Greek inmates alleging living space violations, with cells reportedly offering less than the 3 sq.m. minimum required by ECHR standards. This shortfall could trigger substantial fines for Greece, which paid €2.8 million in 2023 for similar violations.
Greek authorities aim for final case decisions by late 2024, and officials stressed compliance with human rights law as essential.
Greece’s judiciary has been directed to prioritize prisoner complaints, ensure proper documentation, and assess eligibility for compensation and sentence adjustments.
Kathimerini
