Leaving Greece

When entering the EU for the first time, a refugee must submit an application for asylum. So much is clear. Less well known, however, is the fact that for 90% of all refugees, the Aegean is the gateway to Europe. So what does that mean for Greece? Every aspect of the Greek asylum system is so overstrained that it has effectively collapsed. No one is allowed to remain in Greece, and yet, according to the EU, no one may leave. The authorities are extremely harsh to those attempting to exit the country. Leaving Greece tells the very personal story of the three Afghan refugees: Hossein, Reza and Kaka, who have tried for years to break this vicious circle. A film about friendship – and the contradictory European refugee policy. (Zurich Film Festival)