Exile – Hotspot in Leros, Gr

The Leros hotspot, officially known as the “Reception and Identification Center,” was established as part of Greece’s response to the significant influx of migrants and refugees arriving on its shores, particularly during the height of the European migration crisis in 2015 and 2016. Leros, being one of the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, became a key entry point for migrants and refugees making the perilous journey across the sea from Turkey to Greece.

In 2020, the Leros hotspot, like other Greek island facilities, faced overcrowding, delays in asylum processing, inadequate living conditions, mental health challenges among migrants and refugees, and occasional community tensions. These issues were part of a broader problem affecting hotspots in Greece, and efforts were made by the Greek government and humanitarian organizations to address them. However, the situation remained complex and fluid, and living conditions were often challenging for those residing in the facility.