Our Mission

Greece remains at the front lines of Europe’s humanitarian crisis as the first port of entry into Europe for most asylum seekers. In 2016 over 1 million refugees arrived at Greece’s shores. Yet five years later, the situation on the islands is arguably worse than it was when it began. The 2016 EU-Turkey deal, the ongoing economic recession, new laws reducing protections for migrants, and increased arrivals has made access to asylum and protection more difficult. As a result, refugees remain confined to the islands, in abysmal conditions and overcrowded camps. 

Project Philoxenia is a grassroots initiative working to mobilize members and descendants of the Greek diaspora to stand in solidarity with refugees in Greece. Project Philoxenia seeks to raise awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Greece within and beyond the Greek diaspora, and to use this space to amplify the voices of refugees and asylum seekers.

Philoxenia translates from the Greek word φιλοξενία to “friend of the stranger,” but the meaning goes far deeper. Philoxenia encompasses hospitality, compassion, friendship, and is fundamental to the Greek way of life and worldview. The virtue of philoxenia is at the core of our organization, and we believe, should also be central to the Greek/European response to the ongoing Aegean humanitarian crisis. We believe that as Greek immigrants and expats, we have the unique opportunity to use our platform and philoxenia to advocate for today’s migrants.