In the news this month…

On January 15th, a court on the Greek island of Lesvos acquitted all 24 humanitarian workers affiliated with ERCI (Emergency Response Centre International), a Greek nonprofit, bringing to an end an almost eight-year long legal ordeal.

The presiding judge was clear – their intention was “not to commit criminal acts but to provide humanitarian aid.” The prosecutor recommended full acquittal, confirming their activity was 100% lawful.

Among those acquitted were Sarah Mardini and Seán Binder, internationally recognized humanitarian workers who have become symbols of solidarity with refugees. Mardini’s story inspired the Netflix film “The Swimmers.”

Their “crime”? Spotting boats in distress. Coordinating rescues. Pulling drowning people from the sea. Saving lives.

This verdict is a powerful reminder:
Saving lives is not a crime.

TheGuardian 
Independent

We wish you a light and bright 2026, and thank you for your presence.

From all at Three Peas  💚