legal and social conditions for asylum seekers and refugees in ...

SOCIAL CONDITIONS FOR REFUGEES
Introduction/legal basis
In principle, recognised refugees are entitled to the same rights and social benefits as Greek
nationals in accordance with Article 23 of the Geneva Convention. In practice, however, local
welfare authorities do not grant to refugees the various allowances which are paid to nationals.
Specific measures for refugees are included in the Presidential Decrees No. 266/1999 and
189/1998 as well as in the Act No. 2646/1998 (see “Social Conditions for Asylum Seekers”
above).
Financial assistance
Assistance provided by the state
At present, there is no financial assistance granted by the Greek state to recognised refugees,
although they are, in principle, entitled to the same rights as Greek citizens. The denial of an
allowance to vulnerable refugees has been referred to the Ombudsman but, at the time of writing,
the provisions of Article 23 of the Geneva Convention are still not applied in Greece.
Assistance provided by refugee assisting NGOs
The assistance programme run by the GCR and SWF covers Convention refugees, asylum
seekers and persons with humanitarian status without distinction. The eligibility criteria and the
allowances granted are described under “Financial assistance for asylum seekers” above.
Housing
At present, only the Lavrion reception centre – although it is mainly intended for asylum seekers –
offers places of accommodation to recognised refugees.
In practice, most refugees live in cities, where they have to find their own accommodation,
sometimes with the assistance of social workers.
In 2000, through a project run by the GRC, 20 refugee families will receive assistance in seeking
a place to rent as well as general information on their legal rights and obligations. Financial
assistance will also be provided in order to cover the rent and to purchase basic household
equipment.
Freedom of movement
As the Greek Government has lifted its reservation regarding Article 26 of the Geneva
Convention of 1951, refugees are allowed to travel all over Greece without restriction, and several
are employed in border areas, particularly on the Aegean islands.
Work permit
According to the Presidential Decree No. 189/1998, refugees have the right to work and can
obtain a work permit before completion of the determination procedure. In practice, many
experience difficulties in finding a job.
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Greece