In memoriam

Today, I pay tribute to Spyros Rizakos (1960-2024), a devoted defender of human rights and a beacon of hope for migrants and refugees in Greece. He dedicated his life to advocating for those whose voices often went unheard, working relentlessly to ensure that dignity, compassion, and justice were accessible to all.

His unwavering commitment to human rights was evident in every initiative he undertook—whether it was organizing campaigns to raise awareness about the challenges faced by migrants (in detention) or providing direct support and legal assistance to those in distress. Mr. Rizakos firmly believed in the power of community and the significance of solidarity, inspiring countless individuals to join him in the fight for equality and justice.

I first met him in 2016 during a monitoring visit to detention centers in Greece. We gathered at Aitima's offices, an NGO he founded, where we discussed his newly released report, “Forgotten.” From that moment on, our paths crossed many times in various cafés, where we conversed about the ongoing developments in detention practices in Greece. He generously supported my engagement and research in this vital field, meticulously reviewing my PhD dissertation and providing invaluable feedback on other work before publication. Spyros was not just a passionate advocate in the courtroom and police offices but also had a keen interest in research, expressing a desire to become more involved in academic activities.

On a personal note, his passion was truly contagious. His determination—often mistaken for stubbornness—was an attribute that fueled our shared mission. His dedication to human rights will continue to inspire and motivate me.

As I remember him today, I hope that we can carry forward his legacy by advocating for the rights of the marginalized and keeping the pursuit of justice at the forefront of our efforts. I am profoundly grateful for the time we shared and the lessons he imparted. May his spirit guide us as we strive for a more humane and inclusive world.