A Norwegian appeals court has blocked the extradition of Tommy Olsen, the founder of a human rights organization that assists migrants in Greece. Olsen was wanted on human smuggling charges, but the court ruled that the alleged acts are not punishable under Norwegian law and that extradition would risk violating his freedom of expression.
Background of the Case
Tommy Olsen, who leads the Aegean Boat Report, was arrested on March 16 by Norwegian police based on a European arrest warrant issued by Greece. The group documents the plight of migrants crossing the Aegean Sea and has frequently criticized Greek coast guard practices. Initially, a district court approved extradition, but Olsen appealed and was released on March 20 pending the outcome.
Appeals Court Decision
The Norwegian Court of Appeal overturned the lower court's ruling. Olsen's lawyer, Brynjulf Risnes, stated that the court found the actions described in the Greek indictment are not considered criminal offenses under Norwegian legislation. Additionally, the court determined that extraditing Olsen would pose a real risk of violating his right to freedom of expression.
Reactions from Human Rights Groups
The Aegean Boat Report hailed the decision as a significant victory not only for Olsen but also for journalists, human rights defenders, and humanitarian workers documenting abuses at European borders. Amnesty International and other organizations had previously urged Norway not to extradite Olsen.
Earlier in May, the Aegean Boat Report accused the Greek coast guard of endangering a migrant boat in distress. One person died, and 43 were rescued by Turkish authorities. The NGO claimed the migrants reported being violently pushed back by Greek forces, allegations that Greece denies.
According to the International Organization for Migration, over 1,200 migrants have died or gone missing in the Mediterranean since the start of the year.
