The Council of Europe awarded the 2016 Raoul Wallenberg Prize to ‘Agkalia’, a Greek NGO operating on the island of Lesbos, for “outstanding achievements in providing frontline assistance to thousands of refugees irrespective of their origin and religion.”

The jury noted on Tuesday that Lesbos has become a European gateway for refugees. In particular, the work of Agkalia was hailed as being exemplary in providing temporary shelter, food, water and medical aid to people in need, assisting some 17,000 refugees and migrants since May 2015.

Founded by Father Efstratios, known Papa Stratis, who passed away in September 2015, Agkalia has continued to gain steady support as its devoted associates pursue the Father’s endeavour.

“As a small and flexible local organisation based on volunteers, Agkalia sets a leading example of effective action by European civil society on a burning global issue”, stated Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland, announcing the jury’s decision. “Agkalia’s activities reflect the fundamental values of the Council of Europe and contribute to its work to promote and protect human rights in Europe and beyond,” he added.

The award ceremony of the 10,000 euro prize takes place on January 2016, at the Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg.