Norwegian court blocks extradition to Greece of migrant rights activist
Case hailed as human rights victory as Tromsø court says Tommy Olsen’s actions are lawful and protected under international treaties
TL;DR
- Norwegian appeals court rejected Greece's extradition request for activist Tommy Olsen.
- The court ruled Olsen's actions were lawful and protected by international treaties.
- Olsen founded the NGO Aegean Boat Report, which monitors migrants at sea.
- Greece accused Olsen of running a criminal organization for smuggling people.
- The court cited protection of freedom of expression and found no criminal offenses under Norwegian law.
- Norwegian prosecution authorities will not appeal the judgment.
- Human rights groups viewed Olsen's arrest as a misuse of anti-smuggling laws to deter migrant solidarity.
- Greece has been tightening regulations on NGOs assisting migrants.