Publish Date: 30 March 2016 - 12:10

ATHENS, Mar. 30 (MNA) – The Greek government has announced guideline changes with regards to asylum applicants.

Under changes to the rules, Turkey will not be recognized as a 'safe third nation'.

The draft bill will be presented to Parliament today on Wednesday through an emergency procedure.

The changes in the law are aimed at adapting Greek regulations to European norms, which include those detailed in the 'Guideline of the European Parliament and the European Council 2013/32'.

The new law will set a 14-day limit for the revision of the asylum applications.

According to the government spokeswoman, Olga Gerovasili, the new law will also set out guidelines to determine what countries are safe for the life and freedom of those applying for asylum.

The guidelines include the principle of 'no return' to countries where there is risk of torture or bad treatment as is defined in humanitarian law.

Asylum seekers will only be returned to countries were they will receive protection in accordance with the Geneva Convention.

 

PL/MNA