SINN Féin MEP Martina Anderson has called for international intervention to save the lives of refugees currently on hunger strike on the Greek island of Lesvos.
Martina Anderson said: “A number of refugees who have fled war and persecution are currently on hunger strike in the Moria detention centre on the Greek island of Lesvos.
“They are being led by Iranian human rights activist, Arash Hampay, who, although not detained himself, is acting on their behalf to draw attention to their plight.
“It is unacceptable that people like Arash Hampay had more access to medical treatment and services in Iranian prisons where they were held for campaigning for human rights than they do in the EU where they have come to escape persecution.
“As their condition deteriorates we need to see action from the international community, and the EU in particular to save their lives.
“It would be a poor reflection on human rights standards if they managed to survive war and oppression, together with a dangerous sea crossing, only to die in a supposed place of safety.
“We need urgent humanitarian action to save the lives of refugees, not more tragedies,” she added.
