The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) in its report published today (February 24), commended Greece on the enactment of a much-delayed anti-racism law in 2014, which amended existing provisions in the criminal legislation; it further welcomes new special police units tasked with tackling racist violence and the appointment of public prosecutors for the prosecution of acts of racist violence.

However ECRI warns that serious problems remain. ECRI’s Chairman Christian Ahlund said that "despite steps forward…problems persist, including worrying levels of xenophobia and violence against refugees, asylum seekers and migrants and the ongoing segregation of Roma children in some schools…" The report also finds that the activities of the Golden Dawn party increased xenophobia and racism. The ECRI has called on Greece to work with NGOs to "develop a comprehensive national strategy to combat racism and intolerance" and train the judiciary on the enforcement of new laws foreseeing stricter sentences for hate crimes.