Human Rights on Trial: Aid workers in the dock and Greek-Turkish relations

Human Rights on Trial: Aid workers in the dock and Greek-Turkish relations

Author: The New Arab January 20, 2023 Duration: 32:53

This week on The New Arab Voice, we're looking at the trial of the volunteers who helped migrants on the Greek island of Lesvos.

Last week, a group of volunteers appeared in court, facing numerous charges related to voluntary work they undertook to help migrants that were arriving on the island by boat. 

Despite the long history of cooperation between the organisations and the Greek authorities, they were arrested, charged, and many were detained for long periods of time. 

One of those arrested and charged was Seán Binder (@sean_binder_). 

Seán sat down with The New Arab Voice this week to talk about his work on Lesvos, his arrest and detention, the build-up and his eventual trial, and how the targeting of volunteers, like him, will affect vital search and rescue work at sea. 

Also joining us this week is Serhat Çubukçuoğlu (@suhac), a senior fellow in the Department of Strategic Studies at Trends Research and Advisory. We speak with Serhat about the historical relationship between Greece and Turkey, the points of contention, how migrant issues affect their relationship, and what the future may hold.

This podcast is written and produced by Hugo Goodridge.

Theme music by Omar al-Fil. 

Other music by Blue Dot Sessions.

To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TheNewArabVoice or email hugo.goodridge@alaraby.co.uk 


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From a London newsroom, The New Arab Voice reaches across continents, offering a distinct perspective on events and ideas shaping communities from the Middle East and North Africa to Asia and global diasporas. This isn't just a headlines recap. Each episode weaves together rigorous news analysis, cultural insight, and historical context, treating complex political shifts and societal transformations with the depth they deserve. You'll hear from people living the stories-artists, analysts, and everyday voices-providing a nuanced understanding that moves beyond simplistic narratives. The podcast reflects the rich tapestry of the regions it covers, finding the connections between past and present, policy and personal experience. For listeners seeking to move past soundbites and explore the interplay of power, identity, and heritage, The New Arab Voice provides essential listening. It’s where current affairs meet deep storytelling, all grounded in the extensive journalistic tradition of The New Arab. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and illuminate the underreported, fostering a more informed and engaged perspective on a dynamic part of the world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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