Check out our monthly project update for December 2024 at Paréa Lesvos
The word ‘paréa’ in Greek means “company, circle of friends”: everyone is welcome in Paréa!
Located within walking distance from the CCAC (Closed and Controlled Access Camp) on Lesvos, our community center Paréa Lesvos offers a safe space where people on the move, locals and internationals can meet and spend time in a peaceful and welcoming environment.
Paréa is run by Europe Cares responsible for the safety, major facility costs, maintenance and development of the center. It is also a home to another 10 civil society organisations: Artists Giving Back, Boat Refugee Foundation, Collective Aid, Leave No One Behind, Makerspace Lesvos, Refocus Media Labs, Refugee Relief Doro Blancke, Sporos Regeneration Institute, TerraPsy, and Yoga and Sport with Refugees. In a time of high political uncertainty and constant withdrawal of support and international attention from Lesvos, our network of partner organisations joined forces to offer people on the move a wide range of services including food and NFI distributions, legal and psychosocial support, education and social care activities. But first and foremost, we offer a sense of community and belonging.
We are one community in solidarity. Will you join us?
View of Mavrovouni Camp from Paréa Lesvos
LESVOS UPDATES
In December, 1,310 people arrived in Lesvos, while around 338 departed*, bringing the camp population to 3,782. Meanwhile, 17 pushback cases** were reported in the Aegean Sea, involving 504 children, women, and men who attempted to reach safety in Europe.
The Lesvos Closed Controlled Access Center (CCAC) continues to face significant challenges across multiple areas of basic services. Efforts to distribute clothing and hygiene packages are ongoing, but residents face harsh conditions with water temperatures remaining very low. While a new health coordinator has recently taken charge, and a dentist is expected to be available soon, medical services remain heavily reliant on NGOs. Cases of people with scabies are rising alarmingly, requiring close monitoring and collaboration from medical actors on the island. Most containers designated for individuals with disabilities are closed, further limiting accessibility.
Access to education remains limited, with fewer than half of registered children attending classes, and vaccination issues remain unresolved. Additionally, overcrowding and the lack of interpretation services in languages other than Farsi and Arabic create significant barriers, especially for integration-related activities.
On another front, following recent political changes in Syria—a conflict that has displaced 13 million people since 2011, with over 1 million still internally displaced as of late November 2024—many have returned from Lebanon and Turkey. However, 90% remain reliant on humanitarian aid, and the UNHCR warns that Syria remains unsafe for returns. While Greece continues asylum procedures for Syrians, it has paused decisions; other EU countries have halted the entire process. Refugee arrivals from Syria have declined, though Syrians still form a significant part of camp populations on Greek islands (around 38%), except in the Lesvos CCAC where most residents are from Afghanistan.
Amid ongoing violence and instability, migratory flows to Lesvos and other Aegean islands are once again increasing. This underlines the urgent need for sustainable solutions to ensure proper reception and support for people on the move.
_____________________
*UNHCR / **Aegean Boat Report
DECEMBER IN NUMBERS
Highlight of the month
This December, our community center was filled with joy and warmth during our Winter Party, which welcomed 434 visitors. They enjoyed hearty meals prepared by our partner Zaporeak, along with handmade soap bars generously provided by LNOB and delicious cakes offered as special treats.
The outdoor area buzzed with energy as visitors of all ages participated in engaging activities, including dance sessions, spoon races, and musical chairs. Indoors, in collaboration with ReFocus Media Labs, a vibrant photo booth captured cherished moments, while a crafts corner featuring bracelet-making and colorful face painting brought smiles to everyone.
This celebration fostered a sense of community and togetherness, offering much-needed joy and connection during the winter season.
Faces of Paréa
I really like this place, it gives me calmness, that's why I come here every day. I can get to know people from different countries and I like that here we are all equal. Mehdi - From Iran
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Meet our partner: Leave No One Behind
Leave No One Behind is dedicated to solidarity at Europe’s external borders and in other global humanitarian crises. The organisation provides immediate relief through food, clothing, medical supplies, and advocacy campaigns.
In Paréa, Lesvos, Leave No One Behind Greece operates a hygiene free shop offering hygiene items for single men and a laundry service, helping meet essential needs.
These services are crucial, especially given the ongoing hygiene challenges in the camp. As the only organisation in Lesvos providing laundry and hygiene items for men, Leave No One Behind plays a key role in improving the hygiene conditions for people on the move.
Welcome to our space: Gate Office
The Gate Office, located right next to the main entrance of our community center, serves as the first point of contact for every visitor. This space is staffed at all times by a member of the Europe Cares team, ensuring that everyone who enters feels welcomed and supported.
For first-time visitors, the Gate Office provides essential orientation, offering guidance about the center’s services and programs. For our regular visitors, it’s a familiar and reliable point where they can always find someone ready to assist, answer questions, or simply greet them warmly.
The presence at the Gate Office reflects our commitment to creating a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported from the moment they arrive.
Comments