European Lawyers in Lesvos (ELIL) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free, independent legal assistance to refugees in Greece and Poland. Since its establishment in 2016, ELIL has assisted over 30,000 individuals, offering support in asylum procedures, family reunification cases, and age assessment processes. The organization operates offices in Athens, Lesvos, and Thessaloniki, ensuring comprehensive coverage and accessibility for those in need.
ELIL's reputation is underscored by its impressive success rates. In 2024, 74.5% of the individuals assisted by ELIL were granted asylum, significantly surpassing the Greek national average of 48.4%. This achievement reflects the organization's commitment to upholding the rule of law and providing high-quality legal support. ELIL's efforts have been recognized with the 2020 UIA/LexisNexis Rule of Law Prize, highlighting its impactful contributions to the legal community.
Central to ELIL's client service approach is its collaborative model, which involves over 400 volunteer lawyers from 19 European countries. These volunteers work alongside ELIL's full-time Greek asylum lawyers, interpreters, and support staff to deliver personalized legal consultations. By focusing on the first instance of the asylum procedure and offering tailored advice, ELIL ensures that each client receives the necessary support to navigate complex legal processes effectively.
Founded in 2016
