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The Greek Council for Refugees (GCR) and Save the Children (SC) present the report titled “It Doesn’t Feel Like Real Life”: Daily Life for Children in Refugee Structures in Greece, which highlights the challenges faced by children living in refugee facilities across Greece. The study provides an in-depth look at the lived experiences of these children, based on 32 interviews with children, their caregivers, and experts, including state officials.
The report reveals the hardships endured by refugee and migrant children, who account for one in four applicants for international protection in Europe. As a primary entry point to Europe, Greece saw over 6,400 refugee and migrant children arrive in the first six months of 2024 – a striking fourfold increase compared to the same period in 2023. Alarmingly, 86% of these children are under the age of 15.
Many of these children have fled conflict zones such as Syria, Afghanistan, and Somalia, enduring perilous journeys only to face further difficulties in restrictive and isolated reception centers. These structures, often located far from urban centers, significantly limit access to education, healthcare, psychosocial support, and opportunities for play — essential components of childhood development.
Despite existing European and national frameworks designed to protect children’s rights, the report identifies systemic gaps that deprive children in refugee structures in Greece of basic needs and integration opportunities.
Isolation in remote reception facilities.
Lack of mental health services and specialized child protection services.
Healthcare gaps due to limited staffing and resources.
Poor food quality and inconsistent financial assistance that jeopardizes children’s well-being.
Substandard living conditions with inadequate sanitation.
Barriers to education and social integration.
Limited access to interpretation services, leaving families in legal limbo.
Loneliness, anxiety, and stress linked to a living environment that, in some cases, resembles detention.
Bank Account number: 1100 0232 0016 560
IBAN: GR56 0140 1100 1100 0232 0016 560
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