The NGO worker on trial for people-smuggling in Lesbos

In this episode, Sean Binder recounts his journey as a humanitarian volunteer in Lesbos during the ongoing refugee crisis. He describes his experiences spotting distressed dinghies attempting to cross from Turkey to Greece. During one patrol in early 2018, Binder and his colleagues were unexpectedly detained by police, marking the start of a long ordeal. He faces charges related to people-smuggling despite his clear intention to assist refugees, which rights groups have condemned as baseless. The podcast delves into the changing political landscape in Greece, where the government has become increasingly hostile towards NGOs and volunteers, branding them as part of the problem rather than essential aid. Sean discusses the profound impact these charges have had on his life and the broader implications for humanitarian work in Europe. The trial has been delayed for years, and he expresses concern about the severity of the accusations, including espionage, which he believes are unfounded. The episode highlights the environment of fear and uncertainty faced by humanitarian workers in Greece amidst a tightening of immigration policies and shifts in local public sentiment.