A draft bill proposed by Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris seeks to impose stricter regulations on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) collaborating with the Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
The legislation would prohibit NGOs from securing ministry contracts—such as those for translation, interpretation, and transportation services—through direct awards, eliminating exemptions that previously allowed bypassing competitive tenders.
This change addresses longstanding criticisms of opaque practices in direct contracting, promoting fair competition by opening opportunities to private companies.
Under the new rules, NGOs would be classified primarily as service providers rather than entities influencing migration policy.
The bill also streamlines the NGO registration process with the ministry, while introducing enhanced monitoring for organizations receiving public funding or operating in ministry facilities.
NGOs found engaging in unlawful activities, including facilitation of migrant smuggling, would face harsh consequences, such as expulsion from the registry and forfeiture of funding.
Additionally, the proposal highlights an increased role for the Greek Orthodox Church in supporting vulnerable populations, with Minister Plevris describing the Church as a "more reliable partner" compared to certain NGOs.
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