Norwegian court blocks extradition to Greece of migrant rights activist
A Norwegian court has blocked the extradition of activist Tommy Olsen to Greece, marking a significant victory for human rights. The court ruled that Olsen's actions, which involved assisting migrants, were lawful and protected under international treaties. This decision has been hailed as a rare instance of a European court rejecting an extradition request related to migrant rights activism.
- ▪Tommy Olsen was charged with facilitating the illegal entry of migrants into Greece.
- ▪The Norwegian appeals court unanimously rejected the extradition request, citing protections under international law.
- ▪Olsen's actions included monitoring and reporting people in distress at sea, which the court deemed lawful.
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A sign opposes the migrant camp Moria on the island of Lesbos, Greece. ‘Tommy Olsen was charged with monitoring and reporting people in distress at sea,’ his lawyer said. Photograph: Yara Nardi/ReutersView image in fullscreenA sign opposes the migrant camp Moria on the island of Lesbos, Greece. ‘Tommy Olsen was charged with monitoring and reporting people in distress at sea,’ his lawyer said. Photograph: Yara Nardi/ReutersMigrationNorwegian court blocks extradition to Greece of migrant rights activistCase hailed as human rights victory as Tromsø court says Tommy Olsen’s actions are lawful and protected under international treatiesHelena Smith in AthensWed 20 May 2026 13.37 EDTFirst published on Wed 20 May 2026 13.35 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe decision of a Norwegian appeals…
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