Wildfire Claims 18 Lives of Suspected Asylum Seekers in Dadia Region, Greece

Eighteen individuals believed to be asylum seekers have been found dead in a forest in northeastern Greece, where a wildfire had erupted.

Reports suggest that they were caught off-guard and unable to escape the fast-moving fire.

The Greek government’s response to the wildfire and its impact on suspected asylum seekers has been a mix of grief, empathy, and reflection. While efforts were immediately undertaken to contain the fire and aid to affected communities, questions have arisen about the adequacy of evacuation plans and emergency response systems, especially for vulnerable populations like migrants and refugees.

Authorities have banned public access to mountains and forests in those regions until mid week and have ordered military patrols.